Investigation Update on Truck Crash
Authorities have begun examining results from drug and alcohol tests conducted after the crash, although Mr. Ashton noted that he has been instructed to withhold specific details until the involved driver is interviewed. He mentioned that additional test results are still pending.
Further information regarding the accident’s reconstruction will be available to detectives later today. Modern vehicles equipped with GPS technology provide a wealth of data that will aid in a thorough reconstruction of the incident. Mr. Ashton emphasized that despite the driver’s hospitalization, significant reconstruction work has already been undertaken.
While the police have not disclosed the specifics of the driver’s medical condition, they confirmed it was not caused by the accident. The crash is currently being investigated by both the homicide squad and the major crash investigation unit.
Victoria Police Deputy Chief Commissioner Shane Patton stated that the investigation remains open-minded, highlighting the importance of speaking with the truck driver. The driver is under police guard due to suspicions of serious offenses, including potential charges of culpable driving leading to the deaths of four individuals.
Both Commissioner Ashton and Deputy Commissioner Patton have dismissed reports suggesting the truck driver was pulled over earlier as mere rumors. On Wednesday night, investigators searched Mr. Bajwa’s residence located in Cranbourne, a suburb of Melbourne.
According to Commissioner Ashton, findings from the home are still under investigation. A blood sample for drug and alcohol analysis was obtained from the driver on Wednesday night.
The truck involved in the incident was affiliated with Connect Logistics, a Sydney-based transport company that has since shut down its website post-accident. This company specializes in delivering dairy and refrigerated products. Although headquartered in Sydney, employment records indicate they previously hired a truck driver from Melbourne in 2017. The company and its managing director have not responded to inquiries from The Age, and Mr. Bajwa’s family has also been unresponsive to communications.
