South Australia Police Commissioner’s Son Dies in Tragic Hit-Run Incident, Driver Charged
The son of South Australia’s police commissioner has tragically died after being struck by a car in what appears to be a hit-and-run incident during schoolies celebrations. Charlie Stevens, 18, sustained a severe brain injury when he was run down around 9pm on Friday in Goolwa, a town located about 90km southeast of Adelaide. The driver allegedly failed to stop at the scene but was later apprehended nearby.
The driver, an 18-year-old man, has since been charged with causing harm by dangerous driving, aggravated driving without due care, leaving the scene of a serious crash, and failing to truthfully answer questions. He has been denied bail and is scheduled to appear at the Christies Beach Magistrates Court on Monday.
Tragically, young Charlie passed away surrounded by loved ones at 7pm on Saturday. The South Australia Police Commissioner, Grant Stevens, and his wife, Emma, expressed their gratitude towards the police, first responders, and emergency services who were present during the incident. They also extended their thanks to the wider community for their support during this difficult time. The family specifically acknowledged the dedicated staff at Flinders Medical Centre for their care and support of Charlie and his family and friends.
The Premier of South Australia, Peter Malinauskas, conveyed his deepest sympathies to Mr. and Mrs. Stevens and their children. He highlighted Commissioner Grant Stevens’ four-decade-long service in the South Australian Police and his unwavering commitment to protecting others. Malinauskas lamented the injustice of the tragedy that has befallen the Stevens family, given Commissioner Stevens’ significant contributions to the state.
Deputy Commissioner Linda Williams revealed that Charlie, an apprentice carpenter, had recently finished school. It remains unclear why the alleged offender, who is also 18 years old, was in Goolwa, but Charlie had been celebrating schoolies with his friends there.
The driver’s mother issued a statement expressing deep sympathies to the Stevens family and the pain they are enduring. She refrained from making further comments, respecting that the matter is now before the courts.
This heartbreaking hit-and-run incident has struck the South Australian policing family with a double tragedy. Prior to learning of his son’s involvement in the Goolwa collision, Commissioner Stevens had been discussing the fatal shooting of Brevet Sergeant Jason Doig in Senior, located in the state’s southeast, with Premier Malinauskas. The premier was struck by Commissioner Stevens’ determination to ensure the welfare of his colleagues amidst the aftermath of the deadly shootout.
The investigation into the Goolwa incident is still ongoing, led by the Major Crime Detectives who are tirelessly working to uncover all the details.
Overall, this devastating incident has sent shockwaves through South Australia. The loss of young Charlie Stevens has not only deeply affected his family but also the wider community. It serves as a grim reminder that tragic events can happen to anyone, even those who dedicate their lives to protecting others. The South Australian authorities will continue to work diligently to seek justice for Charlie and his loved ones while offering support to those affected by this heart-wrenching incident.
