Elise Hodder, 24, remembered as kind and strong person after model killed in crash at Melbourne carpark
A young woman killed when she was struck by a car outside a secret Kooyong dance party has been identified as Melbourne model Elise Hodder.
Floral tributes and cards have been left by loved ones at the site of the tragedy at Sir Zelman Cowen Park, with friends remembering Hodder, 24, as someone with a smile that could light up any room.
WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Young man accused of killing Melbourne model.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.She has also been described as a kind, strong and loving person, and was beautiful inside and out.
One friend who is understood to have been with her on the night she died posted on social media: “We are in so much pain thinking of you.”
“The fact we will never see your amazing smile and hear your laugh ever again... we’re broken.”
Another close friend said she had known Hodder for 24 years.
“We were meant to grow old together. Never have I met someone so hilariously and unapologetically herself. Her laugh was infectious, her eyes bewildering, and a heart so full of love,” the friend said.
“Words can’t even begin to describe the grief that floods her family and friends. I will carry you in my heart forever.”
Hodder’s career had recently taken a giant leap after she was featured in the New York-based fashion publication Vanguard Magazine.
Detectives allege 23-year-old Sunbury man Connor Mathiasson was drunk and high on drugs when he got behind the wheel after attending an illegal rave under the Monash Fwy on Saturday night, and struck a group of people.
Hodder was dragged under the car and her friend, 26, was also stuck and injured.
The model’s friend is in a stable condition in hospital at The Alfred and is set to undergo reconstructive surgery on both of her ankles.
Mathiasson was charged with culpable driving causing death, dangerous driving causing death, negligently causing serious injury and unlicenced driving.
When asked outside court if he had a message to the women’s families, Mathiasson’s father said: “It’s devastating, absolutely devastating.”
Mathiasson applied for bail, with his lawyer promising the court he will attend rehab and that his father would provide a $100,000 surety.
He will spend the night in police custody before returning to court on Tuesday to hear if his bail application was successful.
Originally published on 7NEWS
