Police have charged a man over a collision that killed 10-year-old Melbourne boy Jack Power.
Detectives from the Major Collision Investigation Unit have charged the 45-year-old Blackburn North man with dangerous driving causing death.
Police allege the man was driving a Toyota Hiace van that collided with Jack as he walked across a pedestrian crossing in Springfield Rd shortly before 6.30pm on 18 August, the Herald Sun reports.
Jack died in the Royal Children’s Hospital on 21 August. His family donated his organs to help save more than 10 other children.
The man was bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday next week.
Jack’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief from those who knew him, with dozens leaving tributes for the popular and kind-hearted kid on a special Facebook page set up in his memory.
Strangers have also paid tribute to Jack, promising to be more aware on the road. It follows a plea from his heartbroken parents Bonnie and Matt Power for people to take more care.
‘I love you JackoBoy’
“I have read every story, looked at every photo and cried many tears. These stories are certainly helping us in the grieving process and I am forever grateful to each and everyone of you for showing the family your love and support during this time,” Jack’s dad, Matt Power, wrote on Facebook.
“It is really important to our family that we try and make sense of this tragedy. To ensure other families don’t have to go through the pain we are all feeling right now.
“The message is very clear when on the road. BE PRESENT. BE AWARE. DON’T BE DISTRACTED. Honk your horn if you see people doing the wrong thing.
“And for me Jack’s greatest legacy is in organ donation. The family is so proud that Jack has helped at least 10 other people grasp a second chance in life and will continue to live through them. I love you JackoBoy and will miss you very much.”
A funeral for Jack will be held for the Salvation Army Citadel in Chirnside Park this Friday, 31 August.
His family say the service will celebrate Jack “and the incredible impact he had on this world for his short 10 years”.
“If you are inclined to bring flowers, we ask that instead you kindly donate to the Foundation that will be set up in Jack’s name in the days to come,” family friend Cathy Ashton said.
Mum Central will share details of the foundation when it is announced. We know so many of our readers have been affected by what happened to Jack and are keeping his family in their thoughts.
