South Australian Commissioner of Police Grant Stevens’ son identified as teen critically injured after hit-and-run incident at Goolwa Beach during schoolies celebrations

Police – Accident – Death – Obituary News : SA Police Commissioner’s Son Seriously Injured in Hit-and-Run Incident at Goolwa Beach during Schoolies Celebrations

By NCA NewsWire

Published: 20:09 EST, 17 November 2023 | Updated: 21:31 EST, 17 November 2023

The son of South Australian Commissioner of Police, Grant Stevens, has been identified as the teenager seriously injured in a hit-and-run incident at Goolwa Beach. The incident occurred during the schoolies celebrations on Friday night.

Charlie Stevens, the son of Commissioner Stevens, was enjoying the schoolies festivities at Goolwa Beach near Victor Harbour when he was struck by a car at approximately 9pm. The impact left him with severe injuries, and he was immediately airlifted to Flinders Medical Centre.

Medical examinations revealed that Charlie had sustained an irreversible brain injury, and he is currently on life support. His family is anxiously awaiting the arrival of relatives from interstate to be by his side during this difficult time.

The driver of the car, an 18-year-old man from Encounter Bay, did not stop at the scene and fled. However, police quickly located and arrested him on Port Elliot Road in Goolwa. The driver has since been charged with causing harm by dangerous driving, aggravated driving without due care, leaving the scene of a serious crash, and failing to cooperate with authorities.

The Encounter Bay man is scheduled to appear in Christies Beach Magistrates Court on Monday, November 20. The incident has shocked the community, especially considering the recent press conference held by Commissioner Stevens announcing the death of Brevet Sergeant Jason Doig, who was shot and killed on a rural property in the nearby district of Senior.

Charlie Stevens, a student at Mercedes College, was known as a talented junior sportsman, having played football for the Mitcham Hawks team. His friends, Mischa Reilley and Alayna Farley, were on their way to their accommodation when they passed the crash site. They initially thought it was just another arrest by the police but soon realized the seriousness of the situation upon seeing multiple ambulances.

The incident has cast a shadow on the schoolies celebrations, a time traditionally meant for celebration and joy for graduating high school students. The local community is rallying around Charlie’s family, offering support and prayers for his recovery.

This unfortunate incident serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety and responsible driving, especially during times of increased activity and celebrations. Authorities are urging all motorists to remain vigilant and adhere to traffic rules to prevent such tragic accidents in the future.

As the investigation continues, more details are expected to emerge. The community is hoping for a positive outcome and a swift recovery for Charlie Stevens..