The Auburn South Primary School community is grieving after a tragic car crash killed 11-year-old Jack Davey and injured four other children on Tuesday afternoon. The crash occurred when a vehicle ploughed through the school’s fence in Melbourne’s eastern suburb of Hawthorn, leaving families devastated.
Incident Overview
Police confirmed the crash happened just after 2:30 pm when a 40-year-old woman attempted a U-turn on Burgess Street near Auburn South Primary School. After picking up a child, the driver lost control and the car collided with a picnic table where five children were seated.
The crash claimed the life of Jack Davey, an 11-year-old boy from the school. Two 11-year-old girls, a 10-year-old girl, and a 10-year-old boy suffered injuries and were taken to hospital. They remain in serious but stable condition.
Police Investigation and Driver’s Release
Police arrested the 40-year-old woman, a resident of nearby Hawthorn East, shortly after the accident. She was interviewed by officers and later released, pending further enquiries. Inspector Craig McEvoy from Victoria Police described the event as a “tragic circumstance” and acknowledged the emotional toll it has taken on the community.
“These incidents are always hard, but it’s especially devastating when children are involved,” said Inspector McEvoy. He added that the Major Collision Investigation Unit is working alongside the state coroner to determine the cause of the crash.
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Community Pays Tribute to Jack Davey
The loss of Jack Davey has deeply affected the Auburn South Primary School community. Principal Marcus Wicher described the tragedy as “heartbreaking” and asked for privacy to allow the school to mourn.
“Our thoughts and heartfelt sympathies are with Jack’s family and friends,” said Mr Wicher. “This school community is strong, and together we will get through this.”
Flowers and handwritten cards have been laid at the school gates by parents, students, and locals paying their respects to Jack and the injured children.
Figure 1: Jack Davey
Local Leaders Express Condolences
The tragic incident has drawn widespread support from community leaders and politicians. Federal Member for Kooyong, Monique Ryan, expressed her sorrow over the tragedy, saying, “As a community, I know we will come together to support each other.”
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan acknowledged the grief engulfing the state, describing the crash as a “dark shadow” over the city. “This tragedy will affect the broader community, and we are committed to providing ongoing support in the weeks and months ahead,” said Ms Allan.
Education Minister Ben Carroll also offered support to the school, ensuring counsellors, chaplains, and relief teachers are available to help students and staff cope with the emotional aftermath.
Hawthorn and Auburn Communities in Shock
The local community in Auburn and nearby Hawthorn has been left shaken by the accident. Many residents described the scene as chaotic, with several police cars rushing to the site.
Joseph Shim, a former student of Auburn South Primary School, recalled his shock when he arrived at the scene. “It didn’t seem real—a car running into a primary school fence is unimaginable,” he said.
Local business owner Guy Dvir-Ovadia, who has children that attended the school, called the incident “like a horror movie.” He added, “Things will not be the same. This school and the community will carry this loss for a long time.”
School Reopens with Support
Auburn South Primary School reopened on Wednesday morning, offering counselling services to staff, students, and families. Relief teachers from neighbouring schools were on hand to support teachers who needed time off to grieve.
The City of Boroondara also extended its sympathies, releasing a statement expressing sadness over the loss. “Our hearts go out to the families, friends, and entire school community during this difficult time,” the statement read.
Medical Episode Suspected
While police have not confirmed the cause of the crash, an initial statement from the Department of Education suggested the driver may have experienced a medical episode. Investigators, however, have stated it is too early to determine the exact reason behind the incident.
A child who was a passenger in the vehicle was unharmed in the crash, according to police.
Looking Ahead
Auburn South Primary School is focusing on healing and supporting the students and staff affected by the tragedy. With flowers, tributes, and support flowing in from across Melbourne, the Auburn and Hawthorn communities are determined to stand together through this challenging time.
As investigations continue, police are urging anyone with information about the accident to come forward.
Jack Davey’s death has left an indelible mark on Auburn South Primary School and the surrounding community. The pain of losing a young life so tragically has been felt by many, but with strength and unity, the school hopes to navigate this difficult path forward.