A young father who was killed in a Mother’s Day tragedy after exiting a vehicle on a major highway in Western Australia has been identified.
Harrison McElroy, 24, and a 31-year-old woman were struck by a car while parked in an emergency lane on Forrest Highway, in South Yunderup, near Mandurah.
Mr McElroy leaves behind an 18-month-old daughter and a ‘devastated’ family.
The couple were travelling southbound and had parked their white MG sedan in the emergency lane just south of Pinjarra Road before exiting the vehicle about 6.30pm.
A short time later, a dark blue Volvo station wagon travelling in the same direction crashed into them.
Emergency services were called immediately by the driver of the Volvo who stopped at the scene to assist the pair.
Mr Elroy and the 31-year-old woman, who has yet to be identified, suffered critical injuries and died at the scene.
It has been reported the pair were travelling to Waroona to drop off Mother’s Day presents when they were hit.
Harrison McElroy leaves behind an 18-month-old daughter (pictured)
Tributes from friends and family have poured in for Mr McElroy (pictured)
It is unclear why Mr McElroy and the 31-year-old woman had parked the car as they were less than half an hour from their destination.
Crash investigators are examining the scene to determine the exact circumstances of the crash.
Anyone who witnessed the crash, has dashcam or mobile phone footage, is being urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Tributes have poured in for the young father with his sister-in-law Chloe Steele setting up a GoFundMe page in memory of Mr McElroy.
‘Tragically on the 11th of May, a young loving father aged 24 was killed in a freak accident along the Forrest Highway,’ she wrote.
‘We don’t often ask for help, but sometimes life puts you in a place where you have no choice but to reach out.
‘If you could please spare any thing to contribute towards giving Harrison and his family the send off he deserves it would be so greatly appreciated.’
Friends of the family shared their condolences on social media as one commented: ‘Such a freak tragedy condolences to the young couple’s family and friends.’
In a touching message, a loved one said the young father would rest in his daughter’s love, adding: ‘She’ll always know how much you loved her.’
‘I’m so sorry for your loss sweetheart,’ another wrote.
A third said: ‘So sorry to hear of your loss, so tragic, thinking of you.’
