Boy, 6, killed in rally crash
A six-year-old boy is dead after a car ploughed into spectators at a rally in Western Australia yesterday.
There were also reports on Saturday that two other children were seriously injured in the crash, which occurred about 4.30pm (WST) at Donnelly River, about 280km south of Perth.
WA Police believe a man aged in his 40s was driving a Subaru WRX rally car south along Penny Road when it lost control on approach to a right hand bend and slid through temporary barriers and into the crowd before coming to rest in the bush on the side of the track.
The six-year-old boy was killed and two other children were hurt.
The injured children were flown to Perth and then taken to Princess Margaret Hospital.
This morning, an eight-year-old girl is in a serious but critical condition and the ten-year-old boy is in a serious but stable condition in Princess Margaret Hospital for Children.
"Early reports confirm at least two persons are seriously injured, with one child deceased."
Investigators are expected to examine the driver's dash cam footage to determine how the crash happened.
The Trade Hire Donnelly Rally, a round of the WA Rally Championship, was held in forest between Manjimup and Nannup in WA's southwest, according to the Rally WA website.
The Confederation of Australian Motor Sport released a statement this morning saying it was saddened by the tragic incident.
"Following yesterday's tragic incident, CAMS extends its sincere condolences to family and friends of those involved," the statement said.
CAMS Chief Executive Officer Eugene Arocca said the thoughts of CAMS and the Australian motor sport community were with them.
“This is a sad and tragic incident and we extend our deepest sympathies to all involved.
"CAMS will assist WA Police with investigations."
Police would like to speak with anyone who saw the crash. Anyone with information are asked to call Crime Stoppers.
Morning news break – May 9
