Nurse revealed as tragic victim of Melbourne stolen car hit and run - as manhunt for driver continues
A manhunt is underway for a cruel hit-run driver who left a woman to die in the wreckage of her car in Melbourne.
Speeding in a stolen Lexus, he slammed into 53-year-old cardiac nurse Lynda Hansen in Oakleigh before fleeing in what police have labelled a "despicable" act.
The victim's family have thanked those who came to her aide as the driver ran from the scene.
"Lynda was a very caring and family orientated person," her family said in a statement on Tuesday.
"She was a compassionate cardiac nurse at a large private hospital and was excited to be commencing a new position within the hospital in the next week."
She enjoyed yoga, singing in her gospel choir, travel and helping her elderly mother, her family said.
"Lynda leaves behind many shocked and devastated friends and family members," they said.
"We wish to thank the caring people who tried to help Lynda and Victoria Police Force for all of their support."
Police said the man made "no attempt to check on the condition or help out the lady" or make himself known to anyone at the scene.
Police believe the stolen Lexus was speeding north along Warrigal Road when it smashed head on into the woman's silver hatchback while she was turning right into Barkly Street.
The force was so strong the cars were sent spearing out of control down the road.
Witnesses, including an off-duty nurse, pulled the victim out of the car and began first aid.
They also tried to help the injured male driver, who reportedly said, "just give me a couple of minutes" before running away, north along Warrigal Road.
A number of witnesses had called police earlier in the night, as the stolen car was seen speeding through Chadstone and running red lights.
Dash cam videos show that erratic driving, with witnesses saying the driver reached speeds of up 150km an hour.
