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Boy, 11, named as child killed in car crash at primary school in Australia | World News

Pabio October 30, 2024

The principal of a primary school in Australia has described the death of an 11-year-old boy in a car crash as a “total tragedy”.

The car left a road in the suburb of Hawthorn East, Melbourneand crashed through a fence onto an outdoor table where five children were sitting shortly after 2:30 p.m. local time on Tuesday.

Jack Davey, 11, was taken to hospital with serious injuries but later died.

Two girls aged 11, a 10-year-old girl and a 10-year-old boy were also seriously injured and taken to hospital, Victoria Police said.

Marcus Wicher, principal of Auburn South Elementary School, said the accident could “only be described as a complete tragedy.”

He added: “Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Jack’s family and friends, and our thoughts are also with the four students who remain in hospital.”

The driver of the car, a 40-year-old woman, crashed into the fence while turning around after picking up a child from school.

She was arrested at the scene and has since been released pending further investigation. The child passenger in the car was not injured.

Speaking about the accident, Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan said “a dark shadow has been cast over our city and our state.”

She added: “I know that tonight Victorians will think of Auburn South Primary and hold our children even closer.”

Meanwhile, principal Mr Wicher also praised the emergency services who responded to the accident, as well as staff and parents.

He said: “The response from our local community has been overwhelming and I send my sincere thanks to everyone who has contacted me with such generous offers of support.

“This school community is so wonderful and strong, and together we will get through this,” he added.