Father of Melbourne woman Elise Hodder killed at rave in Kooyong describes daily heartache of losing his daughter
The father of a young woman killed when she was struck by a car at a rave in Melbourne last year has spoken publicly about his “compassionate, fun-loving” daughter for the first time.
Hodder was dragged under the car while her friend, 26, was also struck and seriously injured.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.A 25-year-old man was also hit but escaped serious injury.
Three months on from the model’s tragic death, Elise’s dad Michael Hodder spoke to 7NEWS about the heartache he and his family have felt everyday since the accident.
“Our daughter was unnecessarily and tragically killed,” he said.
“We’re dealing with the aftermath of that now.”
Hodder said it was hard for Elise’s family to get through each day without being reminded of her loss, particularly as the family has continued to receive notifications from the council about her parking fines — despite the family notifying them of her death.
“In some ways you’re taking it hour by hour because there are so many triggers around,” Hodder said.
“Her car’s still sitting across the road for example.”
Hodder chooses to wear his daughters bracelet and watch saying it was as close to her as he could get.
“She was the most compassionate, fun-loving, beautiful, outward person you could come across,” he said.
“We’ve lost an angel.”
Last year Elise’s accused killer, Connor Mathiasson, was charged with culpable driving causing death, dangerous driving causing death, negligently causing serious injury and unlicenced driving.
The 23-year-old from Sunbury appeared in court earlier this week to have his bail altered so he could work in a fish and chip shop.
“We’ve got a mantra. We can’t let this ... destroy our family,” he said.
Hodder is channeling his grief to fight for justice for his daughter.
He wants courts to hear victim impact statements at the start of the legal process, not just the end.
“I have to be a voice for Elise and others too that go through these things,” Michael said.
Mathiasson will appear in court again next month.
- With Molly Magennis
Originally published on 7NEWS
