Following the alleged car accident that claimed the life of 72-year-old Ian Colwell, a 35-year-old man has been charged.
Around 5.15 a.m., there were reports of a pedestrian collision at Kittyhawk Drive and Murphy Road in Chermside, Brisbane, prompting the dispatch of emergency personnel.
The driver allegedly fled the scene, abandoned his car near Wavell Heights on Awaba Street, and set it on fire, according to the police.
A short while later, Colwell passed away in the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital from his wounds.
“The vehicle was turning right from Murphy Road into Kittyhawke Drive and appears to have run a red arrow,” a Queensland Police official stated.
According to Senior Sergeant Ken Rogers, Colwell’s family is “still trying to take it all in”.
“As is the driver of the motor vehicle,” he replied.
Colwell’s neighbours have described him as “thoughtful and caring”.
According to The Mark News, the accused driver fled the blazing vehicle and made his way to his Geebung place of employment.
Following tips from the public, police were able to locate him in the end.
Both the hit-and-run site and the burned-out car have been designated as crime scenes.
By 10:00 am, the driver was taken into custody.
He was accused of one count each of reckless driving that resulted in death, fleeing the scene of the event without calling for assistance, and setting fire to a motor vehicle.
He is scheduled to appear tomorrow at Brisbane Magistrates Court.