The family of a toddler who died in a tragic car accident has described the ‘unimaginable void’ left in their lives.
Three-year-old Heidi was walking along a footpath in Victoria’s Bellarine Peninsula when a car allegedly lost control and collided with her on April 11.
Emergency services were called to Presidents Avenue in Ocean Grove, 20km southeast of Geelong, about 4:50pm where Heidi died at the scene.
Victoria Police arrested a 71-year-old woman from Ocean Grove who was subsequently interviewed by detectives.
‘Heidi was a bright, beautiful, joy-filled little girl who brought light and love wherever she went,’ family friend Kristi Davidson said.
‘Her absence leaves an unimaginable void in the lives of all who knew and loved her- especially her parents, Liesl and Nathan and sister, Bonnie.
‘In the midst of their heartbreak, Liesl and Nathan have expressed deep gratitude for the overwhelming love and support they’ve already received.’
The family has been receiving support from friends, their Church, and the wider community, including prayers, meals, flowers and cards.
Three-year-old Heidi (pictured) was walking in Victoria’s Bellarine Peninsula when a car allegedly lost control and collided with her
Ms Davidson has set up a GoFundMe to raise $45,000 for the family to cover day-to-day costs.
‘This practical support will be a blessing to them, not only so they don’t feel the need to return to work too soon, but allowing space for them to grieve, heal, and be together,’ she said.
The fund will help with essential living costs, Ms Davidson said, such as rent, groceries, and bills as well as food delivery and cleaning services.
The 71-year-old woman, who was the alleged driver, has been released pending further enquiries.
Victoria Police have said the exact circumstances surrounding the collision are yet to be determined.
‘It was like a catastrophe, it was like an earthquake happened by silently,’ local resident Tracey Pinnow told 9News on Saturday.
‘All we can think about is the parents, out of no fault of their own enjoying the afternoon, walking home from the shops.
‘Everyone is in tears, and we just can’t believe anything like this can happen so quickly.’
Detectives have yet to determine the exact circumstances of the collision (stock image)
Another resident, Andrew Pinnow, said ‘it’s hard to believe that this has happened’ in their local area.
‘A small seaside place like Ocean Grove where children walk by all the time everyday.’
Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are continuing to investigate the incident.
Anyone who witnessed the collision, has CCTV, dashcam footage or any information that could assist police has been urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
