Sobering video footage has revealed the last moments of a father and his young son before both were killed on the way to buy ice cream. Flowers have been placed at the spot where Braiden Ashley Timmins, 33, and son Hendrix-Hemi Te Rongomau King, 4, died after being struck by a car near Regents Park, south of Brisbane in Australia.
The driver of the vehicle, Trevor William Galbraith, 41, was taken into custody at the scene and later charged with two counts of manslaughter. Flowers were placed at the scene as well as teddy bears, toy koalas, and other plush toys as locals tried to comprehend the tragic incident. A GoFundMe page set up for Mr Timmins by Kiana Whitmore has so far raised Au$16,937 (£8,110).
Writing on the page, Ms Whitemore said: ‘We are absolutely shattered, but doing the best we can to hold on through this heartbreak. As you can imagine, the family will need time to process such an unimaginable loss—it has come as a complete shock, and we are all broken.
“We are truly grateful, from the bottom of our hearts, for your kind words, thoughts, and offers of support. All messages are being passed on to the family.
“All funds raised will go directly towards supporting the family through this absolute tragedy and assist with any expenses during this difficult time. There are no words, only heartache.”
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli said: “No family should ever have to try to unpick the pieces of doing something so wholesome and so beautiful as going to take your child to go to an ice creamery and then not to be able to see that through.
“Queenslanders are trying to come to terms with how one of the most beautiful and innocent gestures could end like that is a really difficult time for the state.”
Local MP Cameron Dick, who laid flowers at the crash site and spoke with the family, posted on Facebook: “Our community is really hurting today.
“I can only begin to imagine the level of grief the family is experiencing.
“But I know our community will rally around those who are suffering.”
Galbraith, who appeared at Beenleigh Magistrates Court on Monday, has been remanded in custody until October 29.
