Man Charged After Traffic Controller Hit by Stolen SUV at Jesmond, meth found in Anus

UPDATED ARTICLE

Jesmond, Newcastle – A 30-year-old man is in police custody and has been charged following a shocking incident in which a traffic controller was struck by a stolen SUV early this morning near Newcastle.

Emergency services were dispatched to Newcastle Road in Jesmond, near the Inner-City Bypass, shortly before 2 am after a 20-year-old female traffic controller was allegedly hit by a silver Mercedes Benz SUV. The vehicle was being pursued by officers from the Newcastle City Police District at the time of the incident.

The SUV had been reported stolen from Salt Ash and was allegedly spotted travelling above the speed limit, prompting the police pursuit. The pursuit ended tragically when the vehicle struck the traffic controller, leaving her with pelvic injuries.

Officers on the scene immediately provided first aid to the injured woman before the arrival of NSW Ambulance paramedics. She was subsequently transported to John Hunter Hospital, where she is reported to be in stable condition and undergoing surgery for a pelvic injury.

The alleged driver attempted to flee the scene on foot but was quickly apprehended by police on Kiah Street. He has been taken to Waratah Police Station, and a crime scene has been established. During a subsequent search, police allegedly located and seized methamphetamine, hidden in his anus, with an estimated potential street value of almost $2000.

The Killingworth man has been charged with eight offences:

• Aggravated dangerous driving occasioning grievous bodily harm – escaping pursuit
• Dangerous driving occasioning grievous bodily harm – drive manner dangerous
• Cause bodily harm by misconduct, in charge of motor vehicle
• Take and drive conveyance without consent of owner
• Drive recklessly/furiously or speed/manner dangerous
• Police pursuit – not stop – drive dangerously
• Possess prohibited drug
• Licence expired more than two years ago

He was refused bail and is set to appear before Newcastle Local Court today (Wednesday, 24 July 2024).

A family member of the injured traffic controller shared a heartfelt message: “My little sis hit by a vehicle this morning at work. Thankfully she is in good spirits and awaiting surgery. 🙏🙏”

Motorists are advised to avoid the area due to significant traffic disruptions caused by the incident. They are encouraged to monitor www.livetraffic.com for updates.

In a related incident, just days prior, another high-speed police pursuit in a roadworks zone near Maitland ended with a collision. A vehicle, reported stolen from Raymond Terrace, crashed into a barricade, causing severe traffic delays. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in that incident.

Authorities urge anyone with information about either incident to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or visit nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. All information is treated with the utmost confidentiality, and the public is reminded not to report via NSW Police social media pages.

As investigations continue, police are stepping up patrols in known hotspots for vehicle theft and speeding, particularly in and around roadworks zones. These areas have seen a rise in incidents, posing increased risks to both road workers and the general public. The community is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to help curb these dangerous trends.

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Community Reaction On Social Media

The incident has sparked a significant response on social media. Here are some of the sentiments and reactions from the community:

1. Worry and Concern: Many users expressed their concern for the injured traffic controller, hoping for her speedy recovery. Comments such as “Hope the young girl will be ok” and “Prayers for a speedy recovery” reflect the community’s sympathy and support for the victim.
2. Anger and Frustration: There is a strong sense of frustration and anger towards the driver of the stolen vehicle. Users voiced their opinions on the justice system, calling for harsher punishments for such crimes. Comments like “Throw the book at them” and “Lock these thieves up for the rest of their lives” were common.
3. Support for Traffic Controllers: Several traffic controllers shared their own experiences and concerns about safety on the job. One user mentioned, “As a traffic controller this is extremely worrying, she was just doing her job,” highlighting the daily risks faced by road workers.
4. Calls for Justice System Reform: Many users expressed dissatisfaction with the current justice system, believing it is too lenient on offenders. Statements such as “Our justice system is the worst” and “Magistrates can’t do their job in line with community expectations” highlight the community’s demand for stricter penalties.
5. Community Solidarity: The incident has also brought out messages of solidarity and support within the community. People are coming together to offer their best wishes to the injured traffic controller and her family, emphasising the importance of looking out for one another.

Earlier this morning

Traffic was closed Eastbound on Newcastle Road for Police Investigations, motorists were required to use an alternate route.

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