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Grandmother's plea after tragic fatal school excursion

A 13-year-old girl from New Zealand has tragically died after sustaining an “unsurvivable head injury” during a school excursion to an ice skating rink. Kymani was rushed from Alpine Ice Sports Centre to Christchurch Hospital in a critical condition on Tuesday morning, after falling while skating with her classmates. Following her sudden death, the young girl's grandmother created an online <a href="https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/ice-skating-school-trip-unexpected-tragedy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">fundraiser</a>, where she explained, “Sadly while on a school excursion Kymani fell, sustaining an unsurvivable head injury.” “This is a parent’s worst nightmare — sending your child to school and to never return home,” Kymani’s family said. “Her parents, brothers, sisters and whanau are devastated. Kymani was a beautiful girl, only 13 years old." “As this is an unexpected tragedy, any funds would be gratefully appreciated and will go towards preparing for what comes next.” "Aroha nui Hiley-Hetaraka whanau (Much love to the Hiley-Hethara family)." The skating rink was closed on Tuesday, as spokesperson said the staff’s “thoughts are with the family at this time”. The Ministry of Education also released a statement, which read, “We are deeply saddened by the tragic news and our thoughts are with the family and school community. Our traumatic incident team is available to support the school for as long as needed.” WorkSafe NZ is looking into the incident. Image credits: givealittle.co.nz

Caring

Tragic moment mother returns to scene of fatal house fire

In a heartbreaking moment, Stacey Gammage, 29, has returned to her devastated home in Lalor Park for the first time since the tragic fire that claimed the lives of three of her children. The fire, allegedly <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/dean-heasman-s-grandmother-breaks-silence-after-deadly-house-fire" target="_blank" rel="noopener">started by her partner, Dean Heasman</a>, 28, left the family reeling with loss and sorrow. On Sunday, shortly before 1am, Heasman allegedly set the family’s home ablaze and barricaded them inside. Two boys, aged two and six, were critically injured and later died at Westmead Hospital. The body of a five-month-old girl was also found by firefighters after extinguishing the flames. Returning on Tuesday afternoon, Stacey Gammage, still wearing her hospital wristband, was supported by family members and police as she read the numerous tributes and cards left outside the home. The street was closed for almost two hours to allow her to grieve privately. The devastated mother then returned to Westmead Hospital, where her four surviving children remain. The children, including a nine-year-old girl and three boys aged four, seven and 11, are all reported to be in stable condition. Heasman remains under police guard in an induced coma at Westmead Hospital, and no charges have yet been filed. Investigations continue under Strike Force Carrbridge. According to reports, Heasman allegedly threw a burning pillow at his wife, which contributed to the blaze. Investigators are also examining whether an accelerant was used, as a second explosion occurred moments after the initial fire began. Local hero Jarrod Hawkins, whose daughter is friends with one of the surviving children, rushed to the burning home and saved the nine-year-old girl and her three brothers. The eldest boy reportedly told his rescuers, "Dad tried to kill me." As the community mourns this unimaginable loss, they continue to leave floral tributes, stuffed toys, and candles at the scene, while detectives work tirelessly to uncover the full details of the tragedy. Image: Nine News

Caring

Elderly driver hailed a hero amid fatal bus tragedy

An elderly driver has been hailed a hero for saving lives after getting caught up in a horror crash between a Greyhound bus and a car towing a caravan. The accident left three women dead and 27 other passengers injured, after the coach allegedly veered onto the opposite side of the Bruce Highway at Gumlu, in north Queensland at around 11am on Sunday. The coach was travelling between Brisbane and Townsville, with 33 people onboard when it collided with a caravan towed by a 4WD. The elderly couple, who were in the 4WD were miraculously not injured. Witnesses have praised the elderly male driver for his quick-thinking skills, when he drove his vehicle out of the way of the oncoming bus - which saved the lives of people driving behind him. "He was a hero for his actions," Janice Beavis told the Daily Mail. “They [the elderly couple] were behaving safely. The bus hit the van, the driver [of the 4WD] was trying to get away. “He saved himself and his wife and the mum and three girls travelling behind him.” 56-year-old Townsville woman, Emma ‘Alli’ Sailor, and two German women aged in their 20s and 30s sadly passed away in the crash. Four people remain in hospital, including two men in their 20s who are fighting for their lives, and two other men, aged 27 and 51, who are in stable conditions. The bus was reportedly running behind schedule, leaving Rockhampton at 2am instead of the planned departure time at 12:45. The speed limit at the section of the highway where the accident occurred was 100km/h. Detectives are investigating whether fatigue could have played a role in the crash. “We haven’t determined any factors that have contributed to the crash at this stage, but certainly a crash of this nature, involving this many people, is a very significant, very tragic incident for us,” Police Superintendent Graeme Paine said at a press conference on Sunday. Anyone who may have seen the crash or have dashcam footage have been urged to contact police. On Monday morning, Police Superintendent Paine said that more witnesses will be interviewed to determine the cause of the crash. “We’ve collected a significant amount of evidence from the scene,” he said. “As we process that evidence and interview further witnesses, we anticipate getting a clearer picture of exactly how it occurred." Image: news.com.au

Travel Trouble

“These are people’s lives”: Calls for gambling reform after fatal cruise ship plunge

The shocking death of a 50-year-old father who went overboard on a P&O Cruise has caused widespread outrage, with many questioning who is to blame for his untimely passing. Shane Dixon had racked up $5,000 of gambling debt while onboard the Elvis-themed voyage, which his mother, who was also travelling with him, helped him to repay. The next day, Dixon went back to the cruise ship's casino where he racked up another $4,000 in debt, before he plunged to his death while the vessel was on its way into Sydney Harbour. While questions have arisen about the circumstances surrounding his death, the CEO of the Alliance for Gambling Reform Carol Bennett said the cruise ship operator had failed to provide Shane with an adequate duty of care, and encouraged him to keep gambling. "It's really concerning that when a ship sails 12 nautical miles off the coast it can then allow anything and everything to happen," she told <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13414919/Anti-gambling-Shane-Dixon-cruise-ship-casino.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Daily Mail Australia</a>. "The rules that might apply on land no longer seem to apply and yet you would expect this cruise line would have some kind of duty of care to ensure that people are not plied with inducements, promotions and advertisements that are pushing them to gamble to extremely harmful levels." "It is just beyond belief that there is not an expectation that when a cruise ship leaves a dock that the rules of that jurisdiction apply." "But clearly that's not the case and we leave it all in the hands of the cruise line operator who may or may not apply the responsible service of gambling." Ms Bennett said it was "fundamental" that gamblers were able to set spend limits, self-exclude themselves and be in an environment free of inducements: all of which are required by law when it comes to casinos on Australian soil. "This is just basic harm reduction that any provider or organisation that is providing gambling services should be complying with," she said. "And if they're not, we need to really seriously think about what governments need to do to address this problem because you do wonder how widespread this is. This could be just the tip of the iceberg." Ms Bennett said Australia loses an estimated $25billion on legal forms of gambling each year, with the consequences spreading far beyond the impact on the economy. "It leads to everything from domestic and family violence to health and mental health issues, anxiety, depression, financial distress, right through to suicide," she said. "It is a huge and to some degree hidden problem in Australia, which is why we need stronger enforcement of safeguards and guardrails around gambling that don't see people led into a situation where they see no other way out but suicide." "These are peoples lives. For every person who gambles, there are six people around them who are going to be directly impacted." Labor backbencher Graham Perrett said the British cruise line most likely operated under the UK's gambling laws. "My understanding is that the UK gambling laws are not dissimilar to ours in terms of marketing and advertising," he said. "It's not just a gambling free-for-all, even if they are outside our territorial seas they still have to follow the laws of the UK." Image credits: Facebook / Shutterstock

Cruising

Police fatally shoot armed 16-year-old after Bunnings carpark stabbing

A 16-year-old boy has been shot dead by police after he stabbed a man in the carpark of a Bunnings Warehouse on Saturday night. WA Police were called to the hardware store in south Perth, which was closed at the time of the incident, after they received a call from the teen saying he was going to commit acts of violence. A second emergency call was then made a short time later after the teenager stabbed a man in the carpark, in what appears to be a random attack. Police Commissioner Col Blanch said when they arrived on the scene, they found a 16-year-old armed with a large kitchen knife. Commissioner Blanch said the boy lunged at officers with the knife and was shot, and died a short time later in hospital. The man who was stabbed, who is in his 30s, is recovering in hospital and is believed to be in a serious but stable condition. The police commissioner and WA Premier Roger Cook held a press conference on Sunday morning and described the incident as "extremely confronting". They said the boy was "running around a car park, armed with a knife" when police arrived. "They [WA police] exited their vehicle and were confronted with a male alone with a large kitchen knife," Commissioner Blanch said. "Two officers drew their tasers and one of the officers drew his firearm. They challenged the male to put down the knife, which he did not." Mr Cook said there were indications the boy had been radicalised online, saying at the press conference, "I want to reassure the community at this stage it appears that he acted solely and alone." "Members of the WA Muslim community, who were concerned by his behaviour, contacted police prior to the incident and I thank them for their help." It was also said the boy's family was cooperating with police. Commissioner Blanch said the incident was not being labelled as a terrorist attack at this stage. "It certainly has the hallmarks of one [but] the reason why I would declare it as a terrorist act going forward — it's about timing," Commissioner Blanch said. "That's something that we can work towards as we find out more information from the motivations behind this." Image credits: ABC / Shutterstock

Legal

Best friends on the way to a wedding identified in fatal crash

The best friends who were on their way to a wedding when they were struck in a fatal crash in Brisbane have been identified. Lily Galbraith, 24, and Emma McLean, 23, were travelling in a silver sedan through the Legacy Way tunnel on Wednesday at 3pm when they were hit by a black Audi. Ms Galbraith, a South Australian nurse who was originally from the Northern Territory, died in the crash, while Ms McLean is still fighting for her life in hospital after suffering critical injuries. The driver of the Audi, who also died in the crash, has been identified as former police officer Bruce Daley. After the Audi collided with the sedan, police believe the impact of the crash then pushed the sedan into a small truck, causing serious injuries to the driver of the truck. Mr Daley, who was medically retired from the Queensland Police Service in December 2014, had posted online about relationship struggles and loneliness over several years. Inspector Hansel said speed would be a “focus” of the investigation, with claims the Audi hit speeds of up to 200km/h before the crash. The Nurses and Midwives Memorial Page Australia paid tribute to Ms Galbraith on Thursday. “Rest in peace, Lily. Thank you for your service. Condolences to your family, friends and colleagues,” the post read. “All the very best for Emma and sending love to her family as they wait to see how her progress is. We are also thinking of the bride, groom and any wedding guests also mourning.” Image credits: Instagram / Facebook

Caring

Awful new details emerge after man's fatal fall from hot air balloon

Warning: Disturbing details New details have emerged of the moments before a man tragically fell to his death from a <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/man-dies-after-falling-from-hot-air-balloon-over-melbourne" target="_blank" rel="noopener">hot air balloon</a>. The man was one of ten people onboard the hot air balloon ride, which took off at around 7am on Monday. A video obtained by 7News, shows the man, dressed in a brown jumper, taking in the view over the city alongside other guests. Witnesses have also reported that the man looked fine and was even chatting with the ride operator about politics as the balloon launched into the air. As the ride reached around 450metres, just ten minutes later, with no warning whatsoever he shockingly exited the basket in what was reported to be an act of self-harm and plunged to his death. The pilot immediately made a distressed may day call as horrified passengers and motorists witnessed him fall through the air. Passengers onboard another hot air balloon, which was launched at the same time, recalled hearing the distress calls over the radio approximately 15 minutes into their ride. Not long after emergency services arrived at the horrifying scene in Albert Street, Preston in the city's north-east, where his body was found in a front yard. One witness recalled the incident and told the Today show: "My brother heard like a loud bang, almost like something like a large item falling in your house. And it wasn’t until we heard all the sirens that we came out." Passengers onboard the hot air balloon have been offered counselling by the operator, with officers currently preparing a report for the coroner. Images: 7News/ Daily Mail

Legal

Man dies after falling from hot air balloon over Melbourne

An unidentified man lost his life early on Monday morning after falling from a hot-air balloon above Preston, Melbourne. The incident, which occurred around 7:30 am on Albert Road, has left the neighbourhood in disbelief. Paramedics swiftly responded to the scene following distress calls, only to find the lifeless body of the man on the street. According to authorities, the victim was riding in the hot air balloon when the tragic accident unfolded. The area quickly became a hive of activity, with dozens of police officers cordoning off the road in both directions. Eyewitnesses reported a scene of chaos, with power lines falling onto the road and emergency service crews rushing to the aid of the victim. One neighbour, speaking to reporters from the Today show, recounted the harrowing moments leading up to the discovery of the man's body. "My brother heard like a loud bang, almost like something like a large item falling in your house. And it wasn’t until we heard all the sirens that we came out," he said. Expressions of condolences and solidarity have poured in from the local community and beyond, as news of the tragedy spreads. More updates are expected as authorities work to unravel the events leading up to this heartbreaking incident. Images: The Today Show | ABC News

News

Verdict delivered over fatal Rust shooting

The armourer on the set of the film Rust has been charged with involuntary manslaughter over the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. Halyna Hutchins, who was 42 and a mother to a young son, died after being fatally shot by Alec Baldwin on the set of the Western movie in October 2021. Baldwin has repeatedly denied responsibility, insisting he did not pull the trigger. Now, armourer Hannah Gutierrez has been found guilty, with the jury hearing that Gutierrez, 26, had been ultimately responsible for the use of live rounds on set. Over a 10-day trial in New Mexico, the court heard how she had repeatedly failed to adhere to basic safety rules by leaving guns unattended on set, and allowing actors — including Baldwin — to wave the weapons around. “This is not a case where Hannah Gutierrez made one mistake and that one mistake was accidentally putting a live round into that gun,” prosecutor Kari Morrissey told the jury in her closing argument Wednesday. “This case is about constant, never-ending safety failures that resulted in the death of a human being and nearly killed another.” The judge remanded her in custody ahead of her sentencing, which is not expected before next month, as she faces up to 18 months’ prison. Despite Baldwin long claiming his innocence over the shooting, ballistics experts have dismissed the claim, saying the gun could not have discharged any other way. His own involuntary manslaughter trial is expected in July. Image credits: Getty Images

Legal

Grandmother fatally stabbed in front of granddaughter

On Saturday evening, the Town Square Redbank Plains underground carpark became the scene of a horrifying crime as Vyleen White, a 70-year-old grandmother, lost her life in a brutal stabbing, leaving the community in shock and mourning. The heart-wrenching incident occurred as White was returning to her car with her groceries and her six-year-old granddaughter. The young girl, traumatised by the violence she witnessed, ran up the escalator screaming and crying for help, as the assailants callously stole White's vehicle. Local resident and off-duty doctor Ademola Afolabi responded to the cries for help but tragically arrived too late. He recounted the harrowing experience, stating, “For a little girl to witness that is painful, she won’t forget that.” The shocking nature of this crime has prompted a major manhunt for the alleged perpetrators. Police have released CCTV footage showing four persons of interest, believed to be a mix of adult and juvenile males of African appearance, arriving at a house in the stolen vehicle before abandoning it at nearby Springfield Lakes. The investigation is still in its early stages, but it is suspected that the stabbing was a result of a robbery that escalated into a violent crime. White's daughter, Danice White, expressed the family's grief and frustration. “We want justice,” she said. “There should be a police beat at every shopping centre and a police presence, or even a guard dog on site in the police beat. If we can’t feel safe walking around, there’s a problem.” The tragic loss of Vyleen White, remembered as a thoughtful woman with a strong Christian faith, has left her family and friends devastated. Her daughter described her mother's compassion, saying, “She was always praying for people, that’s why I am still around.” As the community mourns the loss of a beloved grandmother, there is an urgent call for action. Queensland Premier Steven Miles has acknowledged the abhorrent nature of the crime and assured that the police are working tirelessly to apprehend the perpetrator. Images: Facebook / Queensland Police

Caring

Major update in fatal stabbing of young Melbourne doctor

The 16-year-old accused of stabbing a young Melbourne doctor to death had allegedly committed a similar crime just months prior. The teenager was allegedly involved in the home invasion of Dr Ash Gordon, which turned fatal after the doctor chased the intruders from his home, ending when Dr Gordon was stabbed and left for dead. As the teens now <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/news/news/major-update-in-tragic-death-of-young-melbourne-doctor" target="_blank" rel="noopener">face charges</a> for his death, an alleged previous victim of the same teenager has come forward, claiming the young man left him with serious head injuries after robbing his house in October. His alleged previous victims claim that the Victorian government has “blood on its hands” and that the boy should not have been released on bail. The victims told<a href="https://www.heraldsun.com.au/truecrimeaustralia/police-courts-victoria/we-feel-anxious-helpless-and-frustrated-with-the-broken-system-alleged-victims-speak-out/news-story/c05575a0908bf85f014217bb4fda7fa4"> the Herald Sun</a> that Dr Gordon's death has left them traumatised and struggling to move on from their own terrifying encounter. In an emotional statement, the alleged previous victims pleaded with Victorian premier Jacinta Allan to reconsider the state's planned youth justice reform. “We are trying to move on with our lives, however, when a case on (alleged) teen crime is reported, we feel anxious, helpless and frustrated with the broken system," they told the publication. “The Allan government and the justice system have blood on their hands, and ultimately should be held accountable.” Under the terms of the 16-year-old’s bail, he was to adhere to a strict nightly curfew, but still managed to allegedly break into Dr Gordon's home shortly before 5:30am on January 13th. Ms Allan has faced increasing pressure to abandon Victoria's overhaul of the youth justice system which would see the age of criminal responsibility raised. The government has committed to raising the age that a child can be arrested, jailed or charged from 10 to 12 by the end of 2024, and again to 14 by 2027, with serious crimes such as homicide being exempt from these changes. Ms Allen however has insisted that the reforms are a key priority of her government and that they will help prevent future criminal activity. “There’s a huge amount of work that’s being undertaken by Victoria Police to work with those young people ... [and] that sort of prevention-based activity is the best way to address future youth crime,” she said. “At the same time, when offences are made, Victoria Police have the tools and resources to deal with those.” Image credits: Facebook

News

Alec Baldwin facing new charges over fatal Rust shooting

Alec Baldwin has been charged with involuntary manslaughter for a second time over the fatal shooting of Halyna Hutchins on the set of the movie Rust. The Hollywood legend has been indicted by a grand jury in New Mexico over the death of the 42-year-old cinematographer, who was hit with a live bullet that had been loaded into a prop gun for a scene. “The above named defendant did cause the death of Halyna Hutchins by an act committed with the total disregard of indifference for the safety of others,” the indictment obtained by <a href="https://nypost.com/2024/01/19/news/alec-baldwin-charged-with-involuntary-manslaughter-over-rust-shooting/">The Post</a> read. Baldwin has long denied the charges, and has stood by his claim that he did not pull the trigger on the day of the accident. Baldwin had previously been charged with the same crime by the Santa Fe district attorney in January 2022. He pleaded not guilty at the time, but the case soon fell apart and the charges were dropped in April that year after it was determined that further forensic testing needed to be done on the weapon that fired the bullet. Despite the case being dismissed, the DA was clear that the door would be left open to refile the charges. Prosecutors have also charged Rust armourer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, who oversaw the weapons on the movie set, with the same crime. She has also pleaded not guilty and is awaiting trial. If convicted, Baldwin could face up to 18 months in prison. Image credits: Getty Images

Legal

Christian Oliver's ex-wife shares devastating tribute following fatal plane crash

The ex-wife of late actor Christian Oliver has broken her silence following a plane crash that killed the actor and their two young daughters, Madita Klepser, 10, and Annik Klepser, 12. Jessica Klepser took to Instagram to share a statement just days after the tragedy. "We are deeply saddened by the tragic plane accident on January 4, 2024, which took the lives of our beloved family members," she said in the post shared by Wundabar Pilates, the studio where she works. Klepser added that Oliver and their daughters were returning from a holiday in the Caribbean, when the single-engine plane they were traveling in experienced engine trouble and fell into the ocean. "Unfortunately, all four passengers on the small aircraft did not survive," the statement continued. Klepser then went on to honour her two daughters. "Madita, a vibrant 7th-grade student at Louis Armstrong Middle School, was known for her lively spirit and excelled in academics, dance, singing, and performances. "Annik, a 4th-grade student at Wonderland Ave Elementary School, was recognized for her gentle yet strong demeanor. She was always the first to offer a kind word or a comforting hug. Her passions included basketball, swimming, and various forms of art." "The deep bond, infectious laughter, and adventurous spirit shared by Madita and Annik will be profoundly missed in their communities," adding that Oliver's loss will also be "deeply felt by all who knew him." <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/C1vgVoCrY4v/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C1vgVoCrY4v/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by WundaBar Pilates by Amy Jordan (@wundabarpilates)</a> </div> </blockquote> The post included a picture of their daughters hugging in front of a sunset, and also noted that in lieu of flowers, the family is accepting donations via a <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-christian-madita-and-annik?utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link_all&utm_source=customer" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GoFundMe</a> page, to help cover the costs of returning "Christian and the girls home," among other expenses. The 51-year-old actor had a couple of roles in TV and film, but is mostly known for his role as Snake Oiler in the 2008 action film, Speed Racer. His career began in 1994 with a 26-episode role on the show Saved by the Bell: The New Class. According to The <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/film/2024/jan/07/christian-oliver-daughters-plane-crash-tribute" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Guardian</a>, Oliver and Klepser tied the knot on July 2010, before Oliver filed for divorce in December 2021 after 11 years of marriage. The divorce was finalised in June, with the couple sharing joint custody of their daughters. Oliver is survived by his sister and parents in Germany. Images: GoFundMe/Instagram

Family & Pets

"Impossibly sad": P-plater jailed over fatal crash

A southwest Sydney community is reeling after Tyrell Edwards was sentenced for causing the deaths of five children in a fiery crash last year. Edwards, 20, was driving recklessly at speeds of 147km/h in the suburb of Buxton when he crashed into two trees and struck five teenagers. Lily Van De Putte, Gabby McLennan, Summer Williams, all aged 14, Tyrese Bechard, 15, and Antonio Desisto, 16, were all killed in the devastating incident. Appearing in Campbelltown District Court on his 20th birthday, Edwards sentenced to 12 years in prison, and will be eligible for parole in seven years, after pleading guilty to five counts of aggravated dangerous driving occasioning death at a speed more than 45km/h over the limit. The judge described the deaths of the five victims as “tragic and impossibly sad”. “The loss of these five young people diminishes us all,” he said. “Their deaths were completely avoidable and responsibility for them lies squarely at the feet of the offender.” Gasps were heard in the courtroom as the sentence was read, with families of the victims sharing their disappointment at the sentencing. Speaking outside court on Friday, family members of three of the teenagers hit out at the “unfair” sentence. Samantha McLennan said her heart “dropped” as she heard the ruling, while Exavan Desisto said he was “speechless”. “I knew the outcome wouldn’t be spectacular but to hear it was a big shock,” he said. “The justice system absolutely stinks.” John Van De Putte said he expected the sentence to be low, but felt it did not match the crime. “There’s five lives lost. Seven years in jail,” he said. “You’d get more if you killed someone with a baseball bat Mr Van De Putte had previously told the court there was “no excuse” for Edwards, a licensed driver, to have driven so recklessly and endangered the lives of his underage passengers. “No matter what you get, it will not bring back the five lives,” he told the 20-year-old. Image credits: Facebook

News

Major update in fatal tasering charges

The police officer who allegedly tasered 95-year-old Clare Nowland has had his charges upgraded to manslaughter. Senior Constable Kristian White, 33, was called to Nowland's nursing home in Cooma on May 17th when she was suffering from a medical episode, before allegedly tasering the senior woman. Nowland, who had dementia, was wandering around her care home with two knives when police arrived and the alleged tasering took place. A week after the incident, she died in hospital from the injuries she sustained. While she was still fighting for life in hospital, Nowland's family filed a civil case against the state of NSW for negligence and trespass to a person, launching an investigation into the incident. Earlier this year, the police officer was charged with recklessly causing grievous bodily harm, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and common assault over the incident. On Wednesday, police upgraded Constable White's charges, charging him with manslaughter after receiving advice from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and State Crime Command’s homicide squad. Constable White remains suspended from duty with full pay and on bail in the Cooma community, where is prohibited from interacting with any of Mrs Nowland’s eight children, 24 grandchildren, or 30 great-grandchildren. He will next appear at Cooma Local Court on December 6th. Image credits: Facebook / Nine News

Legal

Manhunt as two men who fled scene of fatal car crash identified

The young victims of a deadly crash crash have been identified, as police continue their search for two men who fled the scene. Braydan Collier, 13, and Kaine Bell, 14, were killed after a silver Ford sedan slammed into a telegraph pole and a jacaranda tree in Ashcroft, western Sydney, at high speed on Monday, splitting the vehicle in two and throwing one of the young boys from the car. Braydan had just celebrated his 13th birthday on Sunday, the day before he and his best mate would be killed in the horrifying crash. The two men, one of whom was driving the car, abandoned the scene, prompting a major manhunt from police. The men are claimed by police to be Nicholas Thew and Anthony Morris, according to report from <a href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/braydan-collier-and-kaine-bell-killed-in-horror-ashcroft-crash/news-story/15b23363d37e02c5e2b6fa1839c23869" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Daily Telegraph</a>. Graphic CCTV footage of the accident captured the moment two adult men, who, the publication reports “played surrogate big brother roles” in their lives, pulled themselves from the wreckage of the car, stepped over the boys’ bodies and fled the scene. One of the men could be heard yelling to his fellow front seat passenger “I wanna go home” as they ran, leaving the teenagers behind, who died at the scene. Nicholas Thew’s younger brother Dridyn told The Telegraph his family was horrified by the accident. He said he and his mother had taken the young victims “under their wing”. “Mum’s more worried about the two little boys, she tried to take them under her wing, she took Kaine and Braydan under her wing even though she struggles herself,” he said. “They’re little ones I took under my wing to keep out of trouble, but I haven’t seen them for two days and look where they are now." “My younger brother went around there and identified them. I’m heartbroken.” NSW Police are investigating the crash and the events leading up to it as they hunt for the two men who ran from the wreck, with Assistant Commissioner Brett McFadden saying the accident was “clearly avoidable”. “We are looking for that driver to present themself so we can speak to him. We do not know what role, if any, he has played in the crash, but it is certainly an active line of investigation,” he said. He urged the pair who fled the vehicle to come forward, warning: “we will find them”. “They just need to present themselves to a police station, so we can engage with them and they can assist us with the inquiries and work out how this tragic situation unfolded,” Mr McFadden said. Image credits: Nine News

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Erin Patterson arrested over fatal mushroom meal

Erin Patterson has been arrested at her home in Victoria over her potential involvement in the suspicious deaths of three people. In July, Gail and Don Patterson, the parents of Erin Patterson's ex-husband, and Gail Patterson's sister, Heather Wilkinson, died from mushroom poisoning after attending a lunch hosted by the 49-year-old woman. Heather's husband Ian Wilkinson also attended the lunch and was critically ill, but recovered. All four had shared a meal, understood to be a beef Wellington, allegedly cooked by Patterson. Patterson was arrested early on Thursday morning, with AFP conducting a search of her home shortly after her arrest with technology detector dogs in tow. Veteran crime journalist John Silvester, of <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/mushroom-cook-erin-patterson-arrested-over-fatal-lunch-20231102-p5egxu.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Age</a> newspaper, told Today Extra on Thursday that the dogs were a sophisticated police tool that can detect electronic devices. "These dogs are absolutely amazing and they can sniff out and have sniffed out a SIM card that was hidden in a bowl of garlic," he said. "They are there for a purpose. This is not speculation. They will be there looking for something like a mobile phone, a SIM card, or a memory disk." Police said Patterson will now be interviewed and the investigation remains ongoing, as no charges have officially been laid. Erin Patterson has always maintained she did not intentionally poison her guests, telling reporters at the time of their deaths that she was "devastated" by the loss of her relatives. "I didn't do anything, I loved them," she said. Image credits: A Current Affair

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Demands for "killer product" to be dropped from Bunnings over fatal disease links

Bunnings Warehouse is being urged in the strongest possible terms to pull a popular item off their shelves amid concerns it could be linked to a fatal disease. A particular range of trendy kitchen countertops have been linked to an incurable disease that the national construction union says has been harming tradies. The Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union (CFMMEU) have taken their demands for the recall directly to the hardware giant’s chief executive Michael Schneider, warning it was “unconscionable” to keep the engineered stone benchtops on Bunnings’ product line up. “Bunnings has unique market power and a unique place in Australian society. If you were to remove this killer product from your shelves, it would send a powerful message,” CFMEU boss Zach Smith wrote. The engineered benchtops, which have become a feature in many modern day Australian kitchens and bathrooms, contain a high concentration of crystalline silica. When cutting the benchtops, silica dust is released into the air, which can lead to the potentially deadly and incurable disease of silicosis, as well as lung cancer. In his letter, Mr Smith called for the product to be removed “effective immediately”. “I am disappointed that, despite all this information being in the public sphere, Bunnings is still advertising and selling high-silica engineered stone products in your stores nationwide,” he said. “Conversely, it is unconscionable for Bunnings to continue promoting and selling this killer product when there is no need to do so." “There are many, many alternatives to engineered stone as a benchtop material. The business costs of removing these products are insignificant when we are faced with the prospect of more deaths.” It has been estimated that up to 103,000 tradies will be diagnosed in their lifetime with silicosis as a result of exposure to silica dust at work, while more than 10,000 will develop lung cancer. In response to the concerns raised, Jen Tucker, the Director of Merchandise at Bunnings, acknowledged that the hardware giant is aware of the issue at hand and emphasised their commitment to keeping a close watch on and adhering to guidance from regulatory authorities. However, Ms. Tucker did not explicitly endorse the request made by the CFMEU. She went on to clarify that the majority of benchtops available in their stores are made from laminate or timber materials. However, for the engineered stone benchtops that they offer, these are pre-cut to precise dimensions before reaching a customer's location. Furthermore, these engineered stone benchtops are exclusively supplied and installed by specialist providers who hold valid engineered stone licenses. These providers strictly adhere to rigorous safety standards, prioritising the well-being of their production and installation teams, all in accordance with the stipulations of their licenses. Ms Tucker underscored Bunnings' unwavering commitment to the safety of their staff and customers, underscoring its profound importance to the company. She also acknowledged that safety is a broader concern within the industry and noted that the federal government is presently conducting a review on this matter. In this regard, Bunnings expressed its support for new legislation and the establishment of consistent standards and licensing procedures across various states and territories, all in pursuit of enhancing safety within the industry. Image credits: Getty Images

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Details of Erin Patterson's police statement around fatal mushroom meal revealed

The woman who prepared a mushroom meal that is believed to have caused the deaths of three individuals has finally disclosed her full account of the events that transpired. According to a written statement submitted to Victoria Police on Friday August 11 – and exclusively <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-08-14/mushroom-poisoning-leongatha-erin-patterson-police-statement/102725876" target="_blank" rel="noopener">obtained by the ABC</a> – Erin Patterson has provided a comprehensive narrative of the incidents leading up to and following the fatal meal. "I am now wanting to clear up the record because I have become extremely stressed and overwhelmed by the deaths of my loved ones," Ms Patterson said in her statement. "I am hoping this statement might help in some way. I believe if people understood the background more, they would not be so quick to rush to judgement. I am now devastated to think that these mushrooms may have contributed to the illness suffered by my loved ones. I really want to repeat that I had absolutely no reason to hurt these people whom I loved." The tragic incident occurred in Leongatha, a town southeast of Melbourne, where Ms. Patterson's mother and father-in-law, Don and Gail Patterson, as well as Gail's sister Heather Wilkinson, lost their lives after consuming lunch at Ms. Patterson's residence on July 29. Heather's husband, Ian Wilkinson, was left in critical condition. The circumstances surrounding the incident have led to speculation within the South Gippsland community, with heightened curiosity as police have been tight-lipped about their ongoing investigation. Authorities have mentioned that the victims displayed symptoms consistent with the consumption of death cap mushrooms. Although Ms. Patterson was initially treated as a suspect, investigators have maintained an open-minded approach to the case. In her statement, Ms. Patterson expressed regret for following the advice to give a "no comment" interview to the police in the immediate aftermath of the deaths. She admitted that she now wishes she had answered some questions, given the nightmare that has unfolded since. The police interview left Ms. Patterson feeling terrified and anxious. She recounted that on the day of the incident, she prepared a beef wellington meal for herself and her elderly guests. Contrary to earlier reports, Ms. Patterson clarified that her children had actually gone to the movies before lunch and were not present during the meal. According to her statement, she served the meal and allowed her guests to select their own plates. She then had a serving of beef wellington herself. The mushrooms used in the dish were a mixture of button mushrooms from a major supermarket chain and dried mushrooms purchased months earlier from an Asian grocery store in Melbourne. Ms. Patterson disclosed that her children consumed the leftovers the next evening. Notably, they do not like mushrooms, so she had removed the mushrooms from their portions. She revealed that she had also suffered from severe stomach pains and diarrhoea after the lunch, leading her to be hospitalised as well. She was administered a liver protective drug via a saline drip and was transferred to Monash Medical Centre in Melbourne. As her guests fell ill, the Department of Health contacted Ms. Patterson to inquire about the possible cause of the adverse reactions. She provided samples of the leftover meal for examination by hospital toxicologists. She also mentioned sharing information about where she purchased the mushrooms but was unable to pinpoint the specific shop in Melbourne. Addressing media reports about the seizure of a food dehydrator at a local tip, Ms. Patterson admitted that she had initially lied to investigators about disposing of the dehydrator. She stated that she panicked due to concerns about her children's custody and discarded it. In her statement, she acknowledged caring for her estranged husband, Simon Patterson, after he suffered a severe stomach illness unrelated to the current incident. She reluctantly nursed him after his hospital discharge and informed him that she did not wish to reconcile. She clarified that Simon had initially intended to attend the fatal lunch but had informed her of his absence prior to the event. Ms. Patterson expressed deep affection and respect for her parents-in-law and highlighted their positive influence on her children. She offered her willingness to assist the police further, including the possibility of a re-interview. The police investigation into the deaths remains ongoing, and Ms. Patterson has indicated her readiness to cooperate. Images: Facebook / A Current Affair

Legal

New details emerge in fatal mushroom poisoning incident

The former spouse of the Victorian woman responsible for preparing a meal for three individuals who tragically passed away, was placed in a medically induced coma last year following an unexpected severe digestive ailment. The revelation surfaces as <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/forensic-tests-on-food-dehydrator-found-at-tip-after-mushroom-deaths-20230808-p5dusv.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Age Newspaper reports</a> that law enforcement have carried out forensic testing on a dehydrator found at a waste disposal site near Erin Patterson's home in Leongatha, southeast of Melbourne. Investigators are now exploring whether this apparatus was utilised to preserve the mushrooms before being discarded. The Age has additionally gained access to Erin's ex-husband Simon's social media posts, in which he recounts a mysterious severe gastrointestinal illness that nearly claimed his life. "I collapsed at home and subsequently spent 16 days in an induced coma, undergoing three emergency surgeries mainly targeting my small intestine, along with another planned surgical procedure," he wrote. "My family was summoned twice to bid me farewell as my chances of survival were minimal." Within the same social media post, he extended gratitude to Ms. Patterson for her support. Despite their separation, the two maintain an amicable relationship. Patterson, aged 48, cooked the fateful lunch which law enforcement suspect might have contained death cap mushrooms. The mother of two is now under police scrutiny after the demise of her ex-husband Simon Patterson's parents, Gail and Don Patterson, as well as Gail's sister Heather Wilkinson. Heather's husband, Ian, is currently in critical condition at Melbourne's Austin Hospital and is awaiting a liver transplant. All four individuals exhibited symptoms consistent with death cap mushroom poisoning following the lunch, which occurred on July 29. Ms Patterson has consistently <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/i-didn-t-do-anything-i-love-them-woman-who-cooked-meal-with-deadly-mushrooms-speaks-out" target="_blank" rel="noopener">maintained her innocence</a>, expressing that she held strong affection for her in-laws, particularly considering Gail's role as a motherly figure. Police have also characterised the case as intricate and potentially devoid of malicious intent. Death cap mushrooms possess the potential to cause grave damage to the liver and kidneys, leading to fatality. Symptoms include abdominal discomfort vomiting, and nausea, yet much of the harm can transpire before symptoms surface. Ms Patterson herself remained unaffected by the luncheon she organised, and her two children have been taken into protective custody as a preventive measure, according to police statements. Detective Inspector Dean Thomas of the Homicide Squad indicated that authorities are yet to determine whether they are dealing with a potential crime or an unfortunate accident. Images: Facebook / A Current Affair

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New details emerge in fatal mushroom poisoning incident

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