Tributes flow for three killed in 'horrendous' crash on Aussie highway
Friends and family are paying tribute to the three people killed in a “horrendous” car crash on a southern Tasmania highway on Saturday.
Dad-of-two Brady Poole, 27, was driving with Andrew Everett, 28, and his girlfriend Maddi Baird, 19, in a blue Toyota Corolla near Sandford when the car swerved into the path of an oncoming Volkswagen just after 5pm, police said.
Tragically, all three were pronounced dead at the scene.
A man and woman in the Volkswagen, both aged 20, were rushed to Royal Hobart Hospital and are in a serious but stable condition, police said.
Inspector Luke Manhood with Tasmania Police told The Mercury that an investigation into the crash is underway, but it’s not yet known why the Toyota crossed to the incorrect side of the road.
“It’s a devastating incident, to lose three lives in one crash is horrendous,” he said, urging people to take “more responsibility and care” while driving.
Southern Police District commander Tim Dooley told the publication a report is being prepared for the coroner.
“We’re thinking about the families that are involved, the friends of these young adults who have tragically lost their lives and the impact that will have…in the broader community,” he said.
“[These] people were essentially just starting out their lives and tragically three of them have lost their lives, and we’re hopeful that the other two will pull through.”
Friends and family pay tribute
Mr Everett’s dad confirmed his son’s death — as well as the tragic passing of Ms Baird and Mr Poole — in a heartbreaking Facebook post on Sunday night.
“What devastating news for our families to realise our loved ones Andrew Everett, my loving son and his beautiful girlfriend Maddi Baird…also Brady Poole…being tragically taken before their time,” Stuart Everett wrote.
“On behalf of our families we appreciate everyone reaching out to offer support, love and kindness at this time.”
It’s understood Stuart Everett had met up with his son and Ms Baird just hours before the crash.
Ms Baird has been remembered by friends as a “beautiful angel”.
“I love you Maddi Baird, forever and always,” Giorja Whitney wrote on Facebook.
“I have no words. I’m shattered completely. You’re my entire world. I miss you so much.”
Police urge witnesses to come forward
Police are calling for anyone who witnessed the fatal crash to come forward, as its revealed 39 people have now died on Tasmanian roads in 2022, compared to 25 this time last year.
“It’s been a horrific year for deaths on Tasmanian roads. Last night’s crash where three young people lost their lives, and another two are in a serious condition, is incomprehensible,” Southern District Commander Tim Dooley said on Sunday.
“Police are out every day targeting those fatal five dangerous driving behaviours — speeding, distraction, drink and drug driving, fatigue, and seatbelts.
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“We’re throwing everything we can at making our roads safer, including brand-new Highway Patrol vehicles, and we’re using other resources like drones and our community evidence portal to help us track down traffic offenders.
“But more needs to be done, and we need to change people’s driving behaviour. Now more than ever we need the community’s support.
“Talk to your family, talk to your friends, talk to your children, about making the right choices on our roads.”
Anyone who may have witnessed the Toyota in the area prior to the crash should contact police on 131444. Dash cam footage can be uploaded here.
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