Kirsten Rawolle’s family speak publicly for the first time as alleged killer is slated for trial

The family of a woman who was killed after being struck while waiting at a red light have spoken out for the first time.

The family of a woman killed after being hit in a crash while waiting at a red light have spoken out for the first time – as her alleged killer is set to stand trial.

On Friday, Mark Andrew Burgess, 63, appeared in the District Court to confirm his not guilty pleas to causing the death of Kirsten Rawolle, 32, in a horror crash on February 28, 2024.

Fatal crash scene in Golden Grove on February 28, 2024 taken by members of Kirsten Rawolle's family moments after she died. Picture: Mark Rawolle

Ms Rawolle’s family have spoken out for the first time and said Mr Burgess heading for trial was “distressing” and have shared a moving tribute to their lost loved one.

“The family very much miss Kirsten who lost her life patiently waiting at a traffic light,” the family told the Sunday Mail.

“Such a sudden loss ... truly heartbreaking.

“We remember the wonderful memories we made together and the love we shared.”

Kirsten Rawolle, a 32-year-old woman from Blair Athol, died at the scene after a red Ford Territory crashed into the driver's side door as she sat waiting at a red light. Picture: Supplied

Ms Rawolle was the “cherished and loving daughter” of Mark and Jenny, a tribute published in The Advertiser in March said, and a “dearly loved” long-term partner to Adrian.

Ms Rawolle also left behind her younger sister Tessa.

Mr Burgess, of Hillbank, will now face trial charged with one count each of causing death by dangerous driving, causing harm by dangerous driving and reckless and dangerous driving.

The 63-year-old was allegedly behind the wheel of a red Ford travelling down the Golden Way, Golden Grove, towards the intersection of Atlantis Rd where Ms Rawolle was stopped at a red light.

Mr Burgess’ car was allegedly travelling at approximately 80km/h prior to impact, and struck the Blair Athol woman’s blue Hyundai – pushing it into another car at the intersection.

Late last year, Mr Burgess was permitted to fly to NSW for a family holiday in January this year.

Mark Burgess, will face trial in the District Court in June next year for allegedly killing Kirsten Rawolle. Picture: Roy VanDerVegt

Court documents previously released to The Advertiser revealed Mr Burgess had previously been medically suspended from driving in 2022.

Police investigations had uncovered his driver’s licence was reinstated after filling out a form and undergoing an examination by a GP.

However, police prosecutors will allege Mr Burgess knowingly provided “false and misleading” information to the Registrar of Motor Vehicles in relation to his medical fitness to drive.

One witness described his red Ford Territory “driving like crazy” and “extremely fast” before leaving the tarmac of the road and driving through a garden.

Another detailed the moment the car “struck the concrete divider” on Atlantis Dr, and “went airborne”.

The 63-year-old was remanded on continuing bail to return to court in May ahead of a trial booked in June 2026.