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

<p><strong>Warning: Disturbing details</strong></p> <p>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>. </p> <p>The man was one of ten people onboard the hot air balloon ride, which took off at around 7am on Monday. </p> <p>A video obtained by 7News, shows the man, dressed in a brown jumper, taking in the view over the city alongside other guests. </p> <p>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. </p> <p>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. </p> <p>The pilot immediately made a distressed may day call as horrified passengers and motorists witnessed him fall through the air. </p> <p>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. </p> <p>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.</p> <p>One witness recalled the incident and told the <em>Today </em>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."</p> <p>Passengers onboard the hot air balloon have been offered counselling by the operator, with officers currently preparing a report for the coroner. </p> <p><em>Images: 7News/ Daily Mail</em></p>

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Man dies after falling from hot air balloon over Melbourne

<p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>One neighbour, speaking to reporters from the <em>Today</em> 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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p><em>Images: The Today Show | ABC News</em></p>

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Verdict delivered over fatal Rust shooting

<p>The armourer on the set of the film <em>Rust</em> has been charged with involuntary manslaughter over the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. </p> <p>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. </p> <p>Baldwin has repeatedly denied responsibility, insisting he did not pull the trigger.</p> <p>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. </p> <p>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.</p> <p>“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.</p> <p>“This case is about constant, never-ending safety failures that resulted in the death of a human being and nearly killed another.” </p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>His own involuntary manslaughter trial is expected in July.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images </em></p>

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Grandmother fatally stabbed in front of granddaughter

<p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.”</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.”</p> <p>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.”</p> <p>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.</p> <p><em>Images: Facebook / Queensland Police</em></p>

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Major update in fatal stabbing of young Melbourne doctor

<p dir="ltr">The 16-year-old accused of stabbing a young Melbourne doctor to death had allegedly committed a similar crime just months prior. </p> <p dir="ltr">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. </p> <p dir="ltr">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. </p> <p dir="ltr">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.</p> <p dir="ltr">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"> <em>the Herald Sun</em></a> that Dr Gordon's death has left them traumatised and struggling to move on from their own terrifying encounter.</p> <p dir="ltr">In an emotional statement, the alleged previous victims pleaded with Victorian premier Jacinta Allan to reconsider the state's planned youth justice reform. </p> <p dir="ltr">“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.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The Allan government and the justice system have blood on their hands, and ultimately should be held accountable.”</p> <p dir="ltr">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. </p> <p dir="ltr">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.</p> <p dir="ltr">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. </p> <p dir="ltr">Ms Allen however has insisted that the reforms are a key priority of her government and that they will help prevent future criminal ­activity.</p> <p dir="ltr">“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.</p> <p dir="ltr">“At the same time, when offences are made, Victoria Police have the tools and resources to deal with those.”</p> <p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 12pt;"><em>Image credits: Facebook</em><span id="docs-internal-guid-deb8779e-7fff-f1a9-74f6-d47cadad48af"></span></p>

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Alec Baldwin facing new charges over fatal Rust shooting

<p dir="ltr">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 <em>Rust</em>. </p> <p dir="ltr">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. </p> <p dir="ltr">“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 <em><a href="https://nypost.com/2024/01/19/news/alec-baldwin-charged-with-involuntary-manslaughter-over-rust-shooting/">The Post</a> </em>read.</p> <p dir="ltr">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. </p> <p dir="ltr">Baldwin had previously been charged with the same crime by the Santa Fe district attorney in January 2022.</p> <p dir="ltr">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.</p> <p dir="ltr">Despite the case being dismissed, the DA was clear that the door would be left open to refile the charges.</p> <p dir="ltr">Prosecutors have also charged <em>Rust</em> armourer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, who oversaw the weapons on the movie set, with the same crime.</p> <p dir="ltr">She has also pleaded not guilty and is awaiting trial. </p> <p dir="ltr">If convicted, Baldwin could face up to 18 months in prison.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-72916b43-7fff-6f42-edfa-da16ccff7698"></span></p>

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

<p>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.</p> <p>Jessica Klepser took to Instagram to share a statement just days after the tragedy. </p> <p>"We are deeply saddened by the tragic plane accident on January 4, 2024, which took the lives of our beloved family members," <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">she said in the post shared by Wundabar Pilates, the studio where she works.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Klepser added that Oliver and their daughters were returning from a holiday in the Caribbean, when the </span>single-engine plane they were traveling in experienced engine trouble and fell into the ocean.</p> <p>"Unfortunately, all four passengers on the small aircraft did not survive," the statement continued. </p> <p>Klepser then went on to honour her two daughters. </p> <p>"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. </p> <p>"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."</p> <p>"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."</p> <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></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>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. </p> <p>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, <em>Speed Racer</em>. </p> <p>His career began in 1994 with a 26-episode role on the show <em>Saved by the Bell: The New Class</em>.</p> <p>According to <em>The <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/film/2024/jan/07/christian-oliver-daughters-plane-crash-tribute" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Guardian</a></em>, Oliver and Klepser tied the knot on July 2010, before Oliver filed for divorce in December 2021 after 11 years of marriage. </p> <p>The divorce was finalised in June, with the couple sharing joint custody of their daughters. </p> <p>Oliver is survived by his sister and parents in Germany. </p> <p><em>Images: GoFundMe/Instagram</em></p> <p> </p>

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

<p>A southwest Sydney community is reeling after Tyrell Edwards was sentenced for causing the deaths of five children in a fiery crash last year. </p> <p>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. </p> <p>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. </p> <p>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.</p> <p>The judge described the deaths of the five victims as “tragic and impossibly sad”. </p> <p>“The loss of these five young people diminishes us all,” he said. </p> <p>“Their deaths were completely avoidable and responsibility for them lies squarely at the feet of the offender.”</p> <p>Gasps were heard in the courtroom as the sentence was read, with families of the victims sharing their disappointment at the sentencing. </p> <p>Speaking outside court on Friday, family members of three of the teenagers hit out at the “unfair” sentence. </p> <p>Samantha McLennan said her heart “dropped” as she heard the ruling, while Exavan Desisto said he was “speechless”.</p> <p>“I knew the outcome wouldn’t be spectacular but to hear it was a big shock,” he said. “The justice system absolutely stinks.”</p> <p>John Van De Putte said he expected the sentence to be low, but felt it did not match the crime. </p> <p>“There’s five lives lost. Seven years in jail,” he said. “You’d get more if you killed someone with a baseball bat</p> <p>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. </p> <p>“No matter what you get, it will not bring back the five lives,” he told the 20-year-old.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Facebook</em></p>

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Major update in fatal tasering charges

<p>The police officer who allegedly tasered 95-year-old Clare Nowland has had his charges upgraded to manslaughter. </p> <p>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. </p> <p>Nowland, who had dementia, was wandering around her care home with two knives when police arrived and the alleged tasering took place. </p> <p>A week after the incident, she died in hospital from the injuries she sustained. </p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>He will next appear at Cooma Local Court on December 6th.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Facebook / Nine News</em></p>

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

<p>The young victims of a deadly crash crash have been identified, as police continue their search for two men who fled the scene. </p> <p>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.</p> <p>Braydan had just celebrated his 13th birthday on Sunday, the day before he and his best mate would be killed in the horrifying crash.</p> <p>The two men, one of whom was driving the car, abandoned the scene, prompting a major manhunt from police. </p> <p>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"><em>The Daily Telegraph</em></a>.</p> <p>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. </p> <p>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. </p> <p>Nicholas Thew’s younger brother Dridyn told The Telegraph his family was horrified by the accident.</p> <p>He said he and his mother had taken the young victims “under their wing”.</p> <p>“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.</p> <p>“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."</p> <p>“My younger brother went around there and identified them. I’m heartbroken.”</p> <p>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”.</p> <p>“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.</p> <p>He urged the pair who fled the vehicle to come forward, warning: “we will find them”.</p> <p>“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.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Nine News</em></p>

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Erin Patterson arrested over fatal mushroom meal

<p>Erin Patterson has been arrested at her home in Victoria over her potential involvement in the suspicious deaths of three people. </p> <p>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. </p> <p>Heather's husband Ian Wilkinson also attended the lunch and was critically ill, but recovered.</p> <p>All four had shared a meal, understood to be a beef Wellington, allegedly cooked by Patterson.</p> <p>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. </p> <p>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"><em>The Age</em></a> newspaper, told <em>Today Extra</em> on Thursday that the dogs were a sophisticated police tool that can detect electronic devices.</p> <p>"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.</p> <p>"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."</p> <p>Police said Patterson will now be interviewed and the investigation remains ongoing, as no charges have officially been laid. </p> <p>Erin Patterson has always maintained she did not intentionally poison her guests, <span style="font-family: abcsans, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, Segoe UI, Roboto, Helvetica Neue, Arial, sans-serif;">telling reporters at the time of their deaths that she was "devastated" by the loss of her relatives.</span></p> <p class="paragraph_paragraph___QITb" style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: abcsans, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif;">"I didn't do anything, I loved them," she said.</p> <p class="paragraph_paragraph___QITb" style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: abcsans, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif;"><em>Image credits: A Current Affair</em></p>

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

<p>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.</p> <p>A particular range of trendy kitchen countertops have been linked to an incurable disease that the national construction union says has been harming tradies.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>“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.</p> <p>The engineered benchtops, which have become a feature in many modern day Australian kitchens and bathrooms, contain a high concentration of crystalline silica.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>In his letter, Mr Smith called for the product to be removed “effective immediately”.</p> <p>“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.</p> <p>“Conversely, it is unconscionable for Bunnings to continue promoting and selling this killer product when there is no need to do so."</p> <p>“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.”</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

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

<p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>"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."</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>The police investigation into the deaths remains ongoing, and Ms. Patterson has indicated her readiness to cooperate.</p> <p><em>Images: Facebook / A Current Affair</em></p>

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New details emerge in fatal mushroom poisoning incident

<p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Investigators are now exploring whether this apparatus was utilised to preserve the mushrooms before being discarded.</span></p> <p>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.</p> <p>"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."</p> <p>Within the same social media post, he extended gratitude to Ms. Patterson for her support. Despite their separation, the two maintain an amicable relationship.</p> <p>Patterson, aged 48, cooked the fateful lunch which law enforcement suspect might have contained death cap mushrooms.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>Heather's husband, Ian, is currently in critical condition at Melbourne's Austin Hospital and is awaiting a liver transplant.</p> <p>All four individuals exhibited symptoms consistent with death cap mushroom poisoning following the lunch, which occurred on July 29.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p><em>Images: Facebook / A Current Affair</em></p>

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Officer charged with fatal tasering causes chaos in court

<p>A magistrate has expressed his "absolute disgust" after the NSW police officer charged with the fatal tasering of a 95-year-old failed to show up in person for court. </p> <p>Kristian White, 33, appeared via audiovisual link in Cooma Local Court on Wednesday after being charged with discharging his weapon at Clare Nowland, a dementia patient at an aged care facility in Cooma, who fell backwards from the tasering and sustained fatal injuries.</p> <p>As the virtual court began, Magistrate Roger Clisdell blasted the crown prosecutor’s decision to allow the suspended police officer to appear via a video link. </p> <p>“Who runs this court, Ms Stuart? You or me?” he asked crown prosecutor Sally Stuart in a raised voice.</p> <p>He said he felt “absolute disgust” that the decision had blindsided him, which meant that “dumbo here sitting on the bench just has to suck it up.”</p> <p>The magistrate went on to note that the court had employed several extra security personnel “at great expense” in anticipation of the highly publicised appearance, given the media storm surrounding Ms Nowland's death. </p> <p>There was no reason given as to why Mr White didn't show up for court in person, given he is currently living in the community under no restrictions. </p> <p>In a confusing move, Ms Stuart asked the court to impose a condition which would compel him to appear in court in future.</p> <p>Mr Clisdell blasted the hypocritical application, asking, “You excused him today, so why should I put him at your beck and call, not mine?”</p> <p>Ms Stuart eventually conceded that police should have imposed bail conditions on Mr White when he was charged with the serious offences. </p> <p>“It is probably something that should have been considered at the time but that decision was made by police,” she said.</p> <p>Mr White’s lawyer Warwick Anderson opposed the request for his client to be placed on bail, telling the court it had no “meaningful efficacy”.</p> <p>Despite the magistrate's previous outrage, he agreed and branded the crown application an attempt to placate anyone who might be “upset” about the officer’s lack of restrictions. </p> <p>He declined to impose bail on the 33-year-old and said he would be excused from attending court on the next occasion.</p> <p>Mr White maintained a blank face as he listened to the Magistrate’s tirade from an undisclosed location. </p> <p>The matter will return to court in September and it will be managed by the DPP.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Nine News / Facebook</em></p> <div class="media image" style="caret-color: #000000; color: #000000; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none; box-sizing: inherit; display: flex; flex-direction: column; align-items: center; width: 705.202209px; margin-bottom: 24px; max-width: 100%;"> </div>

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Karl grills police commissioner over near-fatal tasering

<p dir="ltr">Karl Stefanovic has grilled the NSW police commissioner over the devastating near-fatal tasering of a 95-year-old woman.</p> <p dir="ltr">The <em>Today </em>host told Commissioner Karen Webb that there was “a lot riding” on the investigation into the tragic accident, which has left Clare Nowland fighting for her life.</p> <p dir="ltr">Karl asked if there was any other way the police officers could’ve handled the situation, to which Commissioner Webb responded, “We don’t know that.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“We don’t know why the aged-care facility called the police in the first place.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Police officers are trained in a number of tactical options to use the least amount of force.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“Until we actually understand why, we won’t really know.”</p> <p dir="ltr">A senior constable was stood down by NSW Police earlier this week over the incident, while detectives investigate the circumstances surrounding the tasering.</p> <p dir="ltr">Ms Nowland, who is now receiving <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/sad-update-on-95-year-old-tasered-in-aged-care-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">end-of-life care</a>, is believed to have been standing at her walking frame with a knife before she was tasered by police.</p> <p dir="ltr">As a result, the aged care resident fell to the floor and hit her head.</p> <p dir="ltr">As the incident garnered attention across the country, pressure has mounted on NSW police for them to release the footage of the tasering captured on the officer’s body-worn camera.</p> <p dir="ltr">Ms Webb doubled down on her decision to not release the video, as well as her own refusal to view it.</p> <p dir="ltr">“People can’t reconcile the fact that you haven’t looked at this video. They just can’t fathom why you wouldn’t have,” Stefanovic said.</p> <p dir="ltr">In reply, Ms Webb said, “As a decision maker, I may watch this video when all the evidence comes before me.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“But, by watching that video now won‘t make the investigation go faster.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“I need these detectives who are the best in NSW to work through this methodically, follow a process and then I’ll review it as a whole.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Ms Webb justified her stance by saying the local police commander was told by the family they did not want the video to be released at the moment.</p> <p dir="ltr">Despite this, she admitted she understood criticism around her decision to not watch the video, and it potentially poorly portrayed police.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It (the video) may not look good at all,” Ms Webb said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We need to work through the facts and not speculate.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Ms Webb would not confirm how long the investigation would take or when it would deliver its findings.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Today</em></p>

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Teen struck in fatal tram tragedy identified

<p>The teenage girl who died after becoming trapped under a tram in Sydney’s CBD has been identified.</p> <p>Kyra Dulguime, 16, was killed while climbing through two tram carriages in the early hours of the morning on May 11.</p> <p>Emergency services were called to the light rail stop at Haymarket shortly after midnight following reports of a teen being struck by a tram.</p> <p>Police found the 16-year-old girl trapped under the tram with critical injuries.</p> <p>NSW Police told <em>7News</em> that the girl was attempting to climb through the exterior link which connects one carriage to another.</p> <p>Police said once the tram began moving away from the Goulburn Street intersection, the teenager became trapped.</p> <p>The girl is thought to have been dragged over 200 metres while her friend screamed for help, alerting the driver to stop at the light rail station in China Town.</p> <p>Tributes have flown for the young girl following her tragic death, with her friends placing messages and flowers near the scene of the tragedy.</p> <p>They were seen embracing each other and lighting candles in Kyra’s memory as commuters passed by.</p> <p>“I love you and i missed you our beautiful angel Kyra Dulguime we will missed you so much…” one wrote on Facebook.</p> <p>“Rest in peace in the arms of our lord and may the perpetual light shine upon you.”</p> <p>Witnesses told <em>Nine News</em> the teenage girl was attempting to cross George Street by jumping through the gap between two carriages before she became trapped underneath.</p> <p>“We were screaming, ‘help her, help her,’ so the police and paramedic rushed to the spot,” one man said.</p> <p>Mohammed Aqil Abdulla, 29, was working the night shift at TSG Tobacco Station near the Chinatown light rail stop when he heard deafening screams.</p> <p>“The tram dragged her from the lights to the next platform, roughly 200metres,” he told <em>Daily Mail Australia</em>.</p> <p>“She was stuck in between the compartments.”</p> <p>Mr Abdulla said he had heard the girl had attempted to cross between carriages while the tram was stationary at traffic lights.</p> <p>“She wanted to jump from the other side, but suddenly the light changed, and she was stuck in between,” he said.</p> <p>“The driver wouldn't have seen her.”</p> <p>“Witnesses were screaming "Help her! Help her!". The police and paramedics rushed to the spot, but I think she was dead on the spot.”</p> <p>“She was just 16. I feel sorry for her family, it's so sad.” He added.</p> <p>Another witness said the girl was with a friend when she was struck and that other passengers on the tram had tried to help her.</p> <p>A police rescue crew and Fire and Rescue NSW worked to free the girl.</p> <p>Paramedics treated her immediately but she died at the scene.</p> <p>NSW Fire and Rescue Superintendent Adam Dewberry described the incident as a “difficult and tragic situation” for firefighters who rushed to the scene.</p> <p>“On arrival, paramedics were on scene assessing and treating the casualty who was trapped underneath this light rail carriage. Unfortunately there was nothing that could be done,” he told reporters.</p> <p>“Firefighters and police rescue teams under the guidance of tram engineers used hydraulic lifting rams and high pressure air bags to lift the 10 tonne carriage and remove the 16-year-old’s body."</p> <p>The 52-year-old male tram driver was taken to hospital for mandatory testing.</p> <p>It was established as a crime scene and investigation is now underway.</p> <p>Light rail services between Central and Circular Quay were halted throughout the morning while investigators combed the scene.</p> <p>The tram has since been removed and regular timetables resumed as of 6am that day.</p> <p>“Everyone at Transport for NSW is saddened by the death of a teenage girl at a light rail stop in central Sydney overnight,” Transport for NSW Secretary Howard Collins said.</p> <p>“We extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends and loved ones.</p> <p>"We thank emergency services, staff and anyone who rendered assistance for their efforts last night and we will provide our staff with the support they need.”</p> <p><em>Image credit: Facebook/Sunrise</em></p>

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Tragic final photo of newlyweds moments before fatal crash

<p dir="ltr">A bride was killed and her groom was left seriously injured when a drunk driver hit their golf cart from behind in the US state of South Carolina.</p> <p dir="ltr">Samantha Miller, 34, and husband Aric Hutchinson were reportedly leaving their wedding reception when another vehicle hit their golf cart at 105km/h, propelling it almost 100m and causing it to roll.</p> <p dir="ltr">The accident occurred around 10pm on Friday, and Miller died at the scene from blunt force injuries, the Charleston County Coroner’s Office reported.</p> <p dir="ltr">Her husband and two other males were hurt and remain in hospital.</p> <p dir="ltr">Annette Hutchinson, the groom's mother, said that her son-in-law and grandson were escorting the couple from the wedding reception in the golf cart when they were struck from behind.</p> <p dir="ltr">She also said that her son has had one of two reconstruction surgeries and is suffering from a brain injury, and multiple broken bones.</p> <p dir="ltr">Annette has started a GoFundMe account to help pay for her daughter-in-law’s funeral expenses and the medical bills for her son and his family.</p> <p dir="ltr">Authorities have charged Jamie Lee Komoroski, 25, with three counts of felony DUI resulting in great bodily harm/death, and one count of reckless homicide.</p> <p dir="ltr">Komoroski, the driver who hit the golf cart, was not injured in the accident.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: GoFundMe</em></p>

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Fatal mistake sees mother accidentally kill her own daughter

<p>A mother who killed her daughter and another woman when she ran her car over them during a frantic parking lot brawl has been sentenced to at least three years in jail.</p> <p>The NSW woman, Linda Britton went to trial in Sydney’s Downing Centre District Court in 2022 where she was found guilty of two counts of manslaughter over the deaths of her own daughter Skye Luland, 24, and another woman Kazzandra Widders, 20.</p> <p>Both Ms Luland and Ms Widders died as a result of the massive brawl in the parking lot of a Nambucca Heads shopping centre on September 28, 2019.</p> <p>Britton was driving when she intentionally drove her car toward Ms Widders and Ms Luland who were fighting on the ground.</p> <p>Sydney’s Downing Centre District Court saw heated moments inside and out as both sets of families headed into the court to learn Britton’s fate.</p> <p>During the trial, Britton argued that she drove toward the two in an attempt to save her daughter, who she thought was at serious risk of being harmed or killed and was only trying to nudge Ms Widders.</p> <p>Her Daewoo ended up mounting the gutters and a grassed area before it reached a stop on top of the two women, crushing them.</p> <p>Both families arrived at the court wearing shirts printed with the images of their respective loved ones.</p> <p>Ms Widders’ family wore shirts that read, “there can be no peace without justice”, while Britton wore a shirt with the image of her daughter.</p> <p>Judge Sarah Huggett sentenced Britton to six years in jail with a non-parole period.</p> <p>With time served, she will be eligible for release as early as January 2026.</p> <p>“We love you mum,” Britton’s supporters yelled as she was taken away in handcuffs.</p> <p>Outside of the court, Ms Widders’ sister Naomi Widders shared her frustration at the sentence.</p> <p>“Two lives are gone and someone’s serving three years before they can receive parole,” she said outside the court.</p> <p>“That is not worth my sister’s life.”</p> <p>After Britton pleaded not guilty to manslaughter she was found guilty by a jury.</p> <p>The court heard that Ms Luland and Ms Widders had also been involved in a separate altercation earlier in the evening before the frenzied brawl began.</p> <p>Judge Huggett described the atmosphere as “charged, chaotic and frightening”, noting that Britton’s decision to steer toward the women was “spur of the moment” and made in “extreme panic”.</p> <p>She said that Britton reacted “instinctively” doing what she thought was necessary to save her daughter.</p> <p>Judge Huggett also noted that Britton suffered injuries as a result of the altercation, leaving her with a fractured wrist and thumb.</p> <p>“In all the circumstances, while her response to that threat was excessive, it was not excessive by a significant margin,” she said.</p> <p>Britton later told authorities that her only intention was to nudge Ms Widders off her daughter with her bumper bar.</p> <p>“I just saw Skye getting bashed and hit and hit and hit and hit. I didn’t know what to do,” Britton was recorded telling the police.</p> <p>“I thought I would just push her off Skye with the bumper bar of my car.</p> <p>“I thought that girl was going to kill her and I ended up killing my own daughter. It’s all my fault.”</p> <p>Britton said that she was worried for her daughter’s life because she saw Ms Widders on top of her daughter landing multiple punches.</p> <p>After the fatal incident, both women had to be freed from under Britton’s car.</p> <p>Despite attempts to revive the two, both were declared dead at the scene.</p> <p><em>Image credit: Facebook</em></p>

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New details emerge as charges laid over fatal school bus tragedy

<p>A Sydney bus driver will face charges over the tragic incident that cost one teenage boy his life in Southwest Sydney on Wednesday. </p> <p>The 14-year-old was struck just before 3pm at Macarthur Anglican School in Cobbitty and suffered critical injuries. He was treated by paramedics and then taken to Liverpool Hospital in a critical condition, but sadly passed away later that afternoon. </p> <p>The 54-year-old bus driver was also taken to Liverpool Hospital for mandatory testing, and was subsequently arrested. She has since been charged with dangerous driving occasioning death, driving in a dangerous manner, and negligent driving occasioning death. </p> <p>Her licence was suspended and she was refused bail, spending the night in custody. She is set to appear at Liverpool Local Court.</p> <p>The school’s principal, David Nockles, spoke this morning of the victim, describing how the teenager will be missed, and how he was “a much-loved student … an integral part of a school. He will be sorely missed by the students and staff.”</p> <p>"Our thoughts and prayers are with the boy's family … as they deal with unimaginable grief and heartache,” he went on. “At present, all that can be confirmed is that a public transport bus lost control as it moved away from the bus bays, mounting the kerb."</p> <p>“As a result of that accident, the student sustained injuries resulting in his death after his arrival at the hospital,” the principal’s statement continued, before informing students that counsellors and pastoral support would be available to them. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the boy’s family, including his brother in Year 11, as they deal with unimaginable grief and heartache.</p> <p>“The school appreciates the tangible support for our school community as we work through this terrible shock and loss to the wider Macarthur family.”</p> <p>Abeer Lee, a parent who was at the school at the time of the tragedy, opened up to reporters about what she’d witnessed. </p> <p>“There were helicopters, police, and ambulances. There were a lot of parents with kids, and no-one knew what was going on until about an hour later,” she said, adding that their community was “heartbroken” over the loss. “I can only imagine what the kids felt like witnessing the incident.”</p> <p>Another woman, who’d come to pick up her son from the school, described what she saw upon arriving at the scene. “I was shocked, I saw him lying on the ground. Someone tried to do CPR. My heart is breaking to hear the bad news, we love school. Hopefully everyone will be okay after this difficult time.”</p> <p><em>The Daily Telegraph</em> has reported that the bus allegedly veered towards a tree before the 14-year-old was hit, and that teachers had to activate the bus’ emergency exits to remove the distraught students from the scene. </p> <p>While the school has stated that it will be offering no further comment on the devastating incident, local authorities are hard at work investigating the circumstances of the crash. </p> <p><em>Images: 7News</em></p>

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