By Callum Ludwig
Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are investigating after a two-car collision turned fatal occurred in Wandin North on Saturday 11 February.
At about 4pm, the vehicles collided at the notorious intersection of Wellington Road and Clegg Road.
Wandin Fire Brigade Captain Darryn Goss said their concerns were brought to life following the collision.
“We had another motor vehicle accident at the intersection of Wellington and Clegg Road and ultimately it has cost the 89-year-old gentleman his life,” he said.
“Despite there being multiple stop signs, people are still not aware to stop at this intersection and the Wandin Brigade is concerned for the community and really wishes that the Council and State Government do something to reduce incidents here, it was only a matter of time until someone lost their life.”
Paramedics assessed 4 people on scene
The driver of the first vehicle was treated for minor injuries and his two passengers were not injured.
The driver of the second vehicle and two passengers were all taken to hospital.
One of the passengers of the second vehicle, the 89-year-old man, later died in hospital.
Mr Goss said that it is paramount that we review our highly frequent incident areas.
“The ripple effect of someone impacted in an accident or losing a loved one flows on from the immediate family to emergency services personnel who are attending these incidents, and while money might be a factor, can we really put a price on life,” he said.
“We also feel there may be contributing factors from GPS devices where drivers are prompted to proceed through the intersection and not being aware of the stop signs that are in front of them.”
According to the Wandin Fire Brigade’s records, there have been 25 incidents reported at the intersection of Wellington and Clegg Road since 2020, involving 30 patients and now one fatality. A review of the intersection was undertaken in September 2022 with no action taken as of yet.
The exact cause of the collision is being investigated
Anyone who witnessed the collision, has dashcam/CCTV footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
