A fundraising campaign for the family of a boy killed when a car crashed into his school has passed $130,000 as a hub is set up to support the community – as new details emerge about the driver behind the wheel.
Jack Davey, 11, was sitting with his friends on a bench outside at Auburn South Primary School, in Melbourne’s east, on Tuesday afternoon when a Toyota SUV plowed through the fence and into the group of Year 5 students.
Jack suffered serious injuries and died on the way to hospital.
Four other children – including two 11-year-old girls, a 10-year-old boy and a 10-year-old girl – were seriously injured and remain in hospital.
The driver, a 40-year-old woman and recent holder of a P license plate, had just picked up her child from the school when she made a U-turn and plowed into the fence.
Police are investigating what caused the mother to lose control of her car, but it is believed she suffered a medical episode while making the U-turn.
The Hawthorn East mother was arrested and released after police questioning, without charges being laid.
7NEWS reports that the woman had attended a two-hour meeting at the school prior to the crash, but details surrounding the meeting remain unclear.
Jack’s father paid a heartfelt tribute to his son on Thursday morning.
‘Our beautiful son. A shooting star that has blessed us with love, friendship and kindness for eleven years. You were my inspiration and motivation. I can’t understand the future life without you. My buddy, my champion, my Jackie-boi. Godspeed, until we meet again…I love you.”
The council has organized a community support center in a nearby park which will be open from Thursday to Sunday.
“We invite community members to come together and access support and referral services during this difficult time,” the City of Boroondara wrote on social media.
Jack Davey, 11, suffered critical injuries when he was struck by the Toyota SUV while sitting on a bench outside Auburn South Primary School, in Melbourne’s east, on Tuesday afternoon.
Jack is remembered by his local football club as the school community mourns his loss
A woman is seen delivering flowers to Auburn South Primary School
“Our thoughts go out to the families, friends and the entire school community who are struggling with this devastating loss.”
A fundraiser for the Davey family had grown to more than $120,000 as of Thursday morning.
Organizer Lucy Pristel described Jack as a valued member of the Titans basketball community and Gladiators football club, as well as a keen indoor football player.
The money is intended to support the family with costs related to the loss of their son and to allow them to take time off from work.
On Wednesday, Auburn South principal Marcus Wicher said there had been an “overwhelming” response since the tragedy, showing remarkable courage and care.
“This school community is so great and strong, together we will get through this,” Mr Wicher told reporters.
The school is open and additional support services are available, including additional teachers from neighboring schools and pastoral and counseling services.