Chase crash death

By Jade Lawton
A PAKENHAMman involved in a collision that killed a motorcyclist during a police chase at Longwarry on Monday night was “no stranger to traffic police.”
Police allege the 32-year-old Pakenham man was travelling at more than 140km/h with a blood alcohol reading of 0.14 – almost three times the legal limit – at the time of the crash.
The tragic events unfolded when Drouin police spotted a white Holden Rodeo speeding west on the Princes Freeway around 10.40pm.
Police chased the car for less than a kilometre before the ute collided with a motorcycle travelling in the same direction.
It was initially believed the rider was knocked off his bike into the path of the police car, but police now believe it was flying debris that struck their vehicle.
The motorcyclist, a 34-year-old Mooroolbark man, died at the scene.
The driver of the Rodeo attempted to flee the scene but was chased and arrested by police.
The two police members, a sergeant and senior const-able, were not injured in the collision.
Victoria Police Deputy Commissioner Ken Lay could not confirm reports on the offender’s previous drink-driving convictions, but conceded that he was “no stranger to traffic police”.
“It was a real tragedy last night,” he said.
“I’ve got to be a little careful. He (the offender) is no stranger to traffic police.
“What I can say is we are look -ing at issues around speed, looking at issues around alcohol,” he said.
“I can’t comment on the suspect’s history, unfortunately.”
Mr Lay warned the community to take care in the lead-up to Christmas. “We know speed, alcohol and fatigue all contribute.
“With six weeks to go we expect another 40 to 50 people to die (on the roads).
“We will be out in force,” he said.
The Major Collision Investigation Unit is investigating the incident, with oversight from the Ethical Standards Department and the State Coroner.
Police urge anyone who may have information relating to the collision to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppers.com.au where they can remain anonymous.