Tragic School Run Incident Leads to Charges
An 84-year-old woman has been charged in connection with a fatal hit-and-run incident that claimed the life of a six-year-old boy on his way to school nearly eight months ago. Caleb Wesley was struck by a car on Bannockburn-Shelford Road in Teesdale, approximately 30km west of Geelong, on the morning of March 27.
Details of the Fatal Collision
Caleb was walking with his two older siblings, aged nine and twelve, as they crossed the road to reach their school bus. Despite immediate first aid from local residents, which included assistance from a nurse, the young boy succumbed to his traumatic injuries at the scene.
Police investigations allege that the elderly driver left the scene after the incident. Her vehicle was subsequently located at her home. She was interviewed by detectives in March but was released pending further inquiries.
On Tuesday, after a lengthy investigation spanning nearly eight months, Victoria Police formally charged the woman with failing to stop, failing to render assistance, and failing to report a collision.
Community Mourning and Road Safety Response
Covenant College principal Joshua McEwen expressed that the entire school community was 'devastated' by Caleb's death. He remembered Caleb as an 'inquisitive, friendly, empathetic, and well-loved' child who was 'always one of the first to show kindness to others.'
Police previously stated that they believe the driver was aware of the collision. Inspector Craig McEvoy said in March that the alleged offending driver stopped for a short time, got out of the vehicle, and then got back in and drove away from the scene.
In the wake of the tragedy, the local council Golden Plains Shire commissioned a plan to improve road safety in the area. This case has highlighted ongoing concerns about road safety in Victoria, where 261 people have died on the roads so far this year, a figure that is four more than at the same time the previous year.
The accused woman has been granted bail and is scheduled to appear at the Geelong Magistrates' Court on Friday.
