Melbourne, Australia – Richard Pusey, a 41-year-old Melbourne mortgage broker, has been identified as the driver involved in a tragic crash that led to the deaths of four Victoria Police officers on the Eastern Freeway. The fatal incident occurred on Wednesday night, leaving the state and the nation in mourning.
Pusey was reportedly driving a Porsche at 140 km/h when he was stopped by police for speeding. Following the stop, Pusey allegedly tested positive for drugs. The situation escalated when a truck, which had veered off the road, collided with the officers who were attending to the incident. The truck driver, who experienced a medical episode following the crash, is currently under police supervision in a hospital. Authorities later conducted a raid at his home in Cranbourne, although details of the findings have not yet been disclosed.
In the aftermath of the collision, Pusey allegedly fled the scene and shared images of the crash on social media, actions that have shocked and angered the community. He turned himself in to police on Thursday morning and is now being questioned by homicide detectives.
The four Victoria Police officers who lost their lives in the line of duty have been identified as Leading Senior Constable Lynette Taylor, Constable Glen Humphris, Senior Constable Kevin King, and Constable Josh Prestney. The incident has prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes across the state. Flags in Victoria are flying at half-mast, and public tributes are being collected at police stations.
Premier Daniel Andrews and Prime Minister Scott Morrison have both expressed their deep sorrow over the incident. Premier Andrews urged the public to reflect on and honor the service of the Victoria Police, while Prime Minister Morrison described the day as a "dark day" for the police force.
The investigation into the crash is ongoing, with a coronial inquiry set to take place. Victoria Police Association Secretary Wayne Gatt emphasized the challenging and dangerous nature of police work, expressing hope that such a tragedy will not occur again.