A car crashed into a crowd outside a major comic convention in Melbourne on Saturday, killing one man and leaving another critically injured. The incident occurred just after 5pm on Langs Road near the Melbourne Showgrounds, where thousands had gathered for the two-day Supanova Comic Con and Gaming celebration.
Police reported that a Toyota Echo mounted the kerb and struck two pedestrians, both males in their early 20s. One man died at the scene and has not yet been formally identified. The second pedestrian was rushed to hospital with serious lower limb injuries and remains in a life-threatening condition. A third person, not believed to have been struck, was taken to hospital for shock. All three had been attending the convention.
A man known to police has been arrested and is in custody. Detective Inspector Craig McEvoy described the circumstances as "extremely unusual," noting that the vehicle travelled a significant distance along the footpath. Police are investigating whether drugs, alcohol, or speed were factors. Witnesses reported seeing the silver Toyota driving at speed towards a group of people before mounting the kerb.
One witness, Tom, said he heard a screech and saw the car mount the kerb at an erratic speed, hitting several people. He claimed the car then did a U-turn and stalled, and he ran to prevent the driver from fleeing. Tom's wife, a paramedic, provided first aid to one of the victims for 20 minutes until emergency services arrived.
