Lobethal car accident: Matthew Trinkle dies days after he was struck on Adelaide Hills property
Lobethal car accident: Matthew Trinkle dies days after being hit on Adelaide Hills grounds
A young boy who was hit by a car believed to be driven by a relative in a horrific accident has died after spending more than a week in critical condition.
Matthew Trinkle, seven, is part of the family that owns one of the Adelaide Hills region’s most popular bakery chains: Lobethal Bakery.
The boy was hit by a car on a private property on Valley View Lane in Lobethal at about 4:30 p.m. on August 21.
He was taken from the scene in critical condition.
On Friday night, his family confirmed that Matthew had passed away, announcing that a funeral service would be held for the boy on Tuesday.
“We are closing all of our stores at 1pm on Tuesday, September 5th to celebrate the life of Matthew (aka Pepi),” the post on Lobethal Bakery’s Facebook page read.
The family of beloved seven-year-old Matthew “Pepi” Trinkle announced his passing on Friday (above).
Matthew was hit by a car, believed to be driven by a member of his family, on private property in Lobethal, Adelaide (pictured, police on scene)
The family did not say when Matthew passed away, but an online obituary listed his death as August 29.
More than 100 locals from the small community shared their tributes to the young boy and sent well wishes to his grieving family.
‘Our love goes out to all of Pepi’s (Matthew’s) family and friends, he always had such a beautiful cheeky smile. You are all in our thoughts and prayers,” one person wrote.
“So sad to hear of the loss of your beautiful boy. A community in shock. Thinking of you all,’ said another.
“I am very sorry about your loss. Deepest condolences, the community hugs you and your family,” another wrote.
While the family has not disclosed the date of Matthew’s death, they shared an Aug. 23 update on the bakery’s Facebook page asking for privacy “as we navigate the critical phase of this tragedy.”
“Thank you for all the love, support and prayers we receive from all of you. It means a lot,” the message read.
Bakery Lobethal has been a family business since its opening in 1975.
The owner, Helmut Trinkle, grew up and trained as a baker in Germany before eventually moving to Australia.
The business now has bakeries in Lobethal, Woodside, Stirling, Mt Barker and Balhannah and is run by Mr Trinkle’s three sons: Albert, Peter and Paul.
The three brothers, along with their wives and children, pool their ideas, creativity and passion to develop and refine top quality products.
‘To this day they continue Helmut’s journey towards excellence in the art of creating authentic breads and handmade pastries and serving delicious coffee.’
Matthew’s family owns bakery chain Lobethal Bakery in Adelaide Hills (above)