Ferntree Gully truckie charged over fatality

By Peter Douglas

A FERNTREE Gully truck driver has been charged by police following a fatal crash just before 9am on Thursday, 12 January.

According to Victoria Police, a truck failed to stop at a red light along Boronia Road, Wantirna – near Eastlink – and struck a stationary motorcycle.

The female motorcyclist involved was a police officer on her way to work in the north-west of the city.

After the impact, the motorcyclist became trapped underneath the truck, until emergency services freed her.

However, she died at the scene.

Victoria Police announced later that day that Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives had charged a 26-year-old Ferntree Gully man with culpable driving and dangerous driving causing death.

He was remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 13 January.

The fatality takes the 2017 road toll to six, compared to five at the same time last year.

Police will investigate the cause of the crash and anyone who witnessed the incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.