In the aftermath of the tragic crash at a Daylesford pub claiming five lives, police are investigating whether the driver’s diabetes played a role.
On the 5th of November, a white BMW SUV careened into a bustling beer garden in Daylesford, Australia, striking ten individuals from three Melbourne families.
Detective Sergeant Peter Romanis, part of Victoria police’s major collision investigation unit (MCIU), conveyed during the coronial hearing that the inquiry was still in its early stages. At present, no charges have been pressed.
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Romanis highlighted the ongoing investigation into the extent to which the driver’s medical condition, diabetes, might have influenced the collision. However, he expressed difficulty in determining the timeframe for concluding the investigation or predicting the possibility of charges being filed.
Tragically, the crash claimed the lives of five individuals and five more sustained injuries in the incident.
In the course of their inquiry, authorities are reaching out to approximately 140 witnesses. The investigation encompasses evaluating the seating area’s layout and any potential concerns regarding public safety.
The 66-year-old driver, under police watch, was interviewed after the collision and subsequently hospitalised.
After the police interview, he was discharged and tests confirmed the absence of alcohol in his system so as of now, no charges have been brought against him. His legal representative emphasised his client’s status as an insulin-dependent diabetic, highlighting the immediate medical attention required at the scene.
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Acknowledging the immeasurable loss suffered by the families of the deceased and those injured, Coroner Katherine Lorenz extended her sympathies. She characterised the incident as a profound tragedy, transforming what should have been a pleasant outing into a sorrowful occurrence.
Lorenz anticipated a potentially lengthy legal process but pledged to expedite proceedings wherever feasible.
The court is poised to await the completion of Victoria police’s investigation before contemplating potential criminal charges, delaying an inquest until that phase concludes.
