UPDATE: Friday, 28 August
By VICTORIA STONE-MEADOWS
AN UPPER Ferntree Gully man has lost his life after being struck by a car when crossing the Burwood Highway on Thursday, 27 August.
The 75 year old man was crossing the highway away from the pedestrian crossing about 8pm when he was hit by a car travelling west.
Maroondah Highway Patrol Senior Constable Julian Apps said the fault was not with the driver because witnesses said the man failed to look before crossing the road.
“Witnesses all corroborate the same story that the man was at fault and the driver hasn’t done anything wrong,” he said.
“They didn’t see him until it was too late.”
Police believe the man was crossing to the Upper Ferntree Gully train station when he crossed against the red man, but was not quite on the pedestrian crossing.
Snr Const Apps is asking people to take care when crossing roads, especially when weather conditions are bad.
“Always cross at the pedestrian crossings,” he said.
“Wait for the green light and make sure you both ways before crossing the road and be careful.”
The road toll stands at 171, up from 164 at the same time last year.
Thursday, 27 August
By JESSE GRAHAM
A PEDESTRIAN has been killed in a crash this evening in Upper Ferntree Gully, and police are appealing for witnesses to come forward.
Police announced at about 8pm on Thursday, 27 August, that a pedestrian was killed after being hit by a car travelling west on Burwood Highway.
The pedestrian, who has yet to be formally identified, died at the scene.
As of 8pm, police were still at the scene of the crash, and a Victoria Police release on the incident said that the driver of the car was assisting police with their enquiries.
Anyone who may have information, or who witnessed the incident, is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
The road toll currently stands at 171 – seven deaths higher than at the same time last year.
More as it comes.