Tragic Details Emerge in SA Police Commissioner’s Son’s Hit-and-Run Incident
In a heart-wrenching turn of events during Schoolies celebrations, Charlie Stevens, the 18-year-old son of South Australia Police Commissioner Grant Stevens, suffered a fatal hit-and-run incident at Goolwa Beach. The incident unfolded on Friday night, around 9 pm, marking the end of Charlie’s school journey with irreversible consequences.
Following the alleged hit-and-run, Charlie was airlifted to Flinders Medical Centre, where he succumbed to an irreversible brain injury at 7:01 pm on Saturday, surrounded by family and friends. The grieving family expressed gratitude to emergency services and the wider community for their support.
The alleged perpetrator, an 18-year-old man from Encounter Bay, now faces multiple charges, including causing harm by dangerous driving, aggravated driving without due care, leaving the scene of a serious crash, and failing to answer questions. The accused remains in custody, denied police bail, and is scheduled for a court appearance at the Christies Beach Magistrates’ Court on Monday.
Commissioner Grant Stevens, deeply affected by the tragedy, is taking indefinite leave to be with his family during this challenging time. The accused’s mother released a statement, acknowledging the gravity of the situation and expressing sympathy for the Stevens family.
Witness accounts describe the aftermath as frantic, with one person reporting hearing cries for help and another highlighting the distraught state of Charlie’s friends at the scene. Floral tributes at Goolwa Beach stand as a poignant reminder of the impact on the local community.
The incident has left Goolwa Beach residents and witnesses profoundly saddened, with expressions of sympathy for all families involved. Beach Road remains closed as investigators meticulously examine the scene, and the tragedy prompts reflection on the importance of responsible behavior during celebratory events.