An Uber driver involved in a horror crash that killed his young passenger and left him with broken legs has thanked Australians for their support.
Almost $115,000 has been raised for Muhammad Usman, 25, after top obstetrician Rhys Bellinge crashed into his Honda Jazz in Dalkeith, Perth, on February 15.
Elizabeth Pearce, 24, was tragically killed in the crash.
Police allege Bellinge crossed onto the wrong side of Birdswood Parade after reaching speeds of 130km/h in a 50km/h zone and running several red lights.
He was allegedly almost four times over the limit and blew 0.183 on an initial test.
Mr Usman has no family in Perth, but is trying to fly at least one of his parents to Australia from Pakistan as he recovers in hospital.
The engineering graduate revealed he had job interview scheduled for the Monday following the crash but lost that opportunity in an ‘instant’.
‘Sadly, my life took a devastating turn when I was involved in an unfortunate major motor vehicle accident in which also a young and pure soul of Elizabeth Pearce departed from us, May her soul Rest In Peace,’ he wrote on a GoFundMe page.
Almost $115,000 has been raised for Muhammad Usman, 25, after top obstetrician Rhys Bellinge crashed into his Honda Jazz in Dalkeith, Perth, on February 15
Dr Rhys Bellinge (pictured) allegedly crossed onto the wrong side of Birdswood Parade after reaching speeds of 130km/h in a 50km/h zone and ran several red lights.
Elizabeth Pearce, 24, was tragically killed in the crash just minutes from her parent’s home
‘Due to the accident, I have sustained severe injuries, including but not limited to both broken legs and a fractured dominant hand.
‘I am currently hospitalised and face a long, challenging road to recovery.’
In an update, Mr Usman said he was stunned by the response of generous Australians who had donated almost $115,000 as of Thursday.
‘Your belief in me and my journey means the world, and I am excited for the future ahead, knowing I have such an incredible community behind me,’ he said.
Bellinge remains in police custody after being charged with manslaughter and causing grievous bodily harm. He will next face court on March 19.
It’s understood health authorities are in the process of deregistering him.
The Pearce family said their entire world had been ‘shattered’ in a statement.
‘Our beautiful, bright girl brought sunshine to our lives and we are now in darkness. We ask that you respect our privacy at this heartbreaking time,’ they said.
