Advertisement

Man refused bail after fatal crash

A 35-year-old man charged with manslaughter over the crash in Byford which killed father-of-four Mark Noormets has been refused bail.

Rodney Allen Beard is facing charges of manslaughter, reckless driving, unlawful acts with intent to harm and driving under the influence of drugs over the December 6 crash after an alleged road rage incident on the South Western Highway.

Mr Beard, who remains in a wheelchair after his legs were broken in the crash, appeared in the Perth Magistrate's Court this morning by video link from Casaurina Prison.

Mr Noormets, a 51-year-old customs officers and volunteer firefighter, was killed when his car was hit by a Great Wall utility allegedly driven by Mr Beard who is accused of veering on to the wrong side of the highway.

Police will allege he was involved in a road rage incident before the crash.

In court this morning, police opposed bail, saying there were concerns Mr Beard would interfere with witnesses and may commit further offences if released on bail.

Mr Beard's lawyer Rhett Williamson said his client was unable to walk "let alone drive a vehicle" and he did not know any of the witnesses.

He said Mr Beard was able to provide a substantial surety and personal undertaking and could live in Belmont if he was granted bail.

Magistrate Brian Gluestein refused Mr Beard bail due to the seriousness of the offences.

Mr Beard was remanded in custody to appear in the Stirling Garden's Magistrate's Court on January 16.