Auburn South Primary School principal speaks following tragic car crash in Hawthorn East
The principal of the Melbourne school where one child was killed and four others injured when a car crashed through a fence on Tuesday afternoon has described the accident as a “complete tragedy”.
A car ploughed through the fence of Auburn South Primary School in Hawthorn East at about 2.50pm, striking a group of children sitting at a table.
An 11-year-old boy, whose first name is Jack, suffered critical injuries and died while being transported to hospital, while two 11-year-old girls, one 10-year-old girl and a 10-year-old boy remain in hospital in stable conditions.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.School principal Marcus Wicher addressed the media on Wednesday morning and called the incident a “complete tragedy”.
“Our thoughts and heartfelt sympathies are with Jack’s family and friends and our thoughts are also with the four students that remain in hospital and, of course, their beautiful families.
“The response from our local community has been overwhelming, I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone.”
“Together we will get through this — our focus is now on supporting our school community, our children, families and staff.”
He thanked the parents and staff who provided aid and assistance in the aftermath of the accident.
“Their courage and care can only be described as remarkable,” he said.
Parents and children were seen visiting the school on Wednesday morning, laying bouquets near a fence.
The 40-year-old driver had just collected her child from the school when she performed a U-turn and crashed through the fence.
The woman and her child were not injured.
She was arrested and interviewed by police however released pending further inquiries.
It’s believed the driver may have suffered a medical episode however police said it was too early to determine exactly what happened.
Speaking on Sunrise Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan offered her condolences to the parents of the children involved in the incident and said it was important for the community to rally behind the school.
“It is a very, very sad day and if I can at the outset provide my deepest condolences to the family and the school community who are grieving the loss of a beautiful little boy today,” she said.
“This certainly is something that is being felt right across the state by parents and families and communities right across Victoria.”
She said it was “far too soon” to speculate on what caused the crash.
Investigations are ongoing.
Originally published on 7NEWS
