…Researched and contributed by Jack Sylva.
A 40-year-old woman from Dandenong who allegedly ran over a cyclist in a hit-and-run incident captured on dashcam is facing seven charges, including assault with a weapon.
After handing herself in to the police, the woman is expected to be charged on summons with reckless conduct endangering life, reckless conduct endangering serious injury, intentionally causing injury, driving in a dangerous manner, failing to stop after an accident, and failing to render assistance.
The incident occurred on Douglas Street in Noble Park, Melbourne, at 6:40 am last Thursday when the driver of a white sedan, later identified as a 2008-17 Mitsubishi Lancer, struck cyclist Robert Clarke from behind, dragged him and his bike 100 metres down the road, and left the scene.
Driver Identified and Additional Footage Seized
Following the incident, the police launched an investigation and have since located and seized additional CCTV footage to determine who was driving the vehicle at the time.
It is yet to be determined if the woman charged is the driver of the vehicle, but the new evidence will certainly help in their case.
Cyclist Sustains Soft Tissue Damage and Internal Injury
Robert Clarke, the cyclist, was lucky to have survived the incident but sustained soft tissue damage, an internal injury to the back of his rib cage, and is still unable to sit properly.
In an interview, he recalled the terrifying experience, noting that he had heard a car repeatedly accelerating before the driver overtook him, hit him, and fled.
He emphasized the importance of both cyclists and drivers being aware of their surroundings and sharing the road.
Woman to Remain Free Until Court Date
The woman who has been charged is expected to remain free in the community until her court date.
It is unclear when this will be, but she will face multiple serious charges.
This dramatic incident highlights the importance of responsible driving and the need for cyclists to remain vigilant on the road.
It also shows how valuable dashcam footage and CCTV footage can be in helping to identify drivers involved in hit-and-run incidents.