Tragedy struck in Melbourne on Oct. 29 when a 40-year-old woman drove her car through a school fence at Auburn South Primary School. The incident claimed the life of an 11-year-old primary school boy and left four other children injured.
The driver, who was attempting a U-turn to pick up her son, veered off Burgess street and crashed into the school fence. While her son escaped unharmed, the 11-year-old boy tragically passed away in the hospital from critical injuries sustained in the crash.
Additionally, two 11-year-old girls, one 10-year-old girl, and a 10-year-old boy suffered serious injuries and were hospitalized following the incident. The driver was taken into custody but later released as investigations continue.
Preliminary reports suggest that the driver may have experienced a medical episode leading to the crash. The community is in shock and mourning, with local residents and parents devastated by the tragic event.
The Department of Education is providing support to Auburn South Primary School’s staff, students, and parents during this difficult time. School principal Marcus Wicher expressed condolences and urged the media to respect the school’s privacy.
Messages of sympathy poured in from local leaders, including Premier Jacinta Allan and Federal Member for Kooyong Monique Ryan. Victorian Opposition Leader John Pesutto described Auburn South Primary as a tight-knit community deeply impacted by the loss.