Debbie Johnston dies during NDIS respite trip in fatal Hayborough crash

A weekend respite trip for a “much loved” NDIS participant has turned to tragedy, as the care provider vows to work with authorities investigating a fatal crash.

Debbie Johnston has been identified as the victim of Sunday’s fatal accident involving a disability transport vehicle in Hayborough. Picture: Facebook

Debbie Johnston has been identified as the victim of Sunday’s fatal accident involving a disability transport vehicle in Hayborough.

Registered Adelaide-based provider Care Assure was on respite visit to the area when their Toyota van struck a tree at the intersection of Ocean Rd and Port Elliot Rd.

Company spokesman Doug Hicks said the disability service providers are doing “everything they can” to assist with the investigation, while stating the driver was qualified enough to be behind the wheel.

“She had recently undergone training on that particular van, so we’re satisfied with her competency to drive that van,” Mr Hicks told 7News.

“We just need to wait and see what caused the accident, what the events and circumstances were and we’ll go from there.

The company head office at Salisbury was closed on Monday, as SafeWork SA inspectors conducted their investigations.

Witnesses to the crash had reportedly attempted to comfort Ms Johnson, before emergency services attended the scene.

Ms Johnston, 59, from Davoren Park, was two days into the three-day trip when the van she was travelling in crashed just after 4.30pm.

Police and emergency services are at the scene of a serious crash at Hayborough. Picture: 7NEWS

She was a wheelchair passenger in the van and died as a result of her injuries.

She was due to return to Adelaide on Monday.

Two Care Assure workers also in the van, including the 20-year-old woman from Northfield who was driving, were also injured.

In a statement to The Advertiser, provider Care Assure said the staff, including a 30-year-old woman from Croydon Park, had since been discharged from hospital.

The scene of the crash. Picture: Gary Juleff

“Care Assure’s thoughts and prayers are with the participant, the family of the participant, our injured staff, their families and everyone involved in this tragic accident,” the company said.

“We wish to reassure you that the safety and care of our participants and staff is of utmost priority to us.

“We are working with the relevant agencies to investigate and assist in this matter.

“We will provide more information as it becomes known.”