A peaceful evening in the sleepy riverside town of Ulmarra turned to tragedy when a young woman was struck down in a shocking hit-and-run incident that has left the close-knit community reeling.
A Mother's Worst Nightmare
Lisa Ward, a mother whose world has been shattered, has made an emotional plea for information after her daughter, 31-year-old Sarah Ward, was left fighting for her life following the brutal collision. The incident occurred on Sunday night along the quiet stretches of Pacific Highway, where the tranquillity was broken by the screech of tyres and the sickening impact of metal on flesh.
The Search for Justice
Local police have launched a major investigation into the incident, combing the area for CCTV footage and appealing to anyone who might have witnessed the tragedy. What makes this case particularly disturbing is the driver's complete disregard for human life - fleeing the scene without stopping to render assistance or call for help.
"Someone out there knows what happened," a distraught Lisa Ward told reporters, her voice trembling with emotion. "My daughter deserves justice. How could anyone just drive away and leave someone lying there?"
Community in Shock
The tight-knit community of Ulmarra, normally known for its picturesque setting along the Clarence River, has been left stunned by the violence of the incident. Neighbours and friends have gathered to support the Ward family, creating a makeshift vigil at the scene of the accident.
Local residents describe Sarah as a "vibrant young woman" who was well-known and loved in the community. The randomness of the attack has left many feeling vulnerable and questioning the safety of their quiet streets.
Police Investigation Intensifies
New South Wales police have confirmed they are treating this as a serious incident and are pursuing multiple lines of enquiry. Officers from the Crash Investigation Unit have been examining the scene for forensic evidence that might lead them to the vehicle and driver responsible.
Investigators are particularly interested in speaking with anyone who was travelling along Pacific Highway between 8pm and 9pm on Sunday night, believing that multiple vehicles would have passed through the area around the time of the incident.
As Sarah Ward continues her fight for recovery in hospital, the search for answers continues. The Ward family's agony is compounded by the knowledge that whoever was behind the wheel remains at large, potentially putting others at risk.
