Tullamore: Man excused from Sydney Downing Centre after death of child in floodwaters

A motorist, who is facing a manslaughter charge after a boy died when he became trapped inside a car swept away in floodwaters, has had his matter mentioned in court. Read the latest her.

A man has been charged over the death of a boy in floodwaters. Photo: Supplied.

A man charged with manslaughter over the death of a five-year-old boy in floodwaters has been excused from appearing in court.

The man, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, was legally represented at Sydney Downing Centre on Thursday when charges of manslaughter, dangerous driving occasioning in death and negligent driving occasioning in death were mentioned.

Emergency services were called to McGrane Way, Tullamore, northwest of Parkes, on September 23, 2022, following reports two vehicles had been swept in floodwaters.

Inquiries revealed the first vehicle - a Toyota Hilux with five occupants - became submerged at the Genaren Creek crossing about 5pm.

The male driver of the vehicle, a woman and two children escaped from the vehicle and clung on to trees, however, a five-year-old boy was trapped in the car before it submerged.

A screenshot of a video taken of the floodwaters in Tullamore. Photo: Supplied.

A second vehicle entered the flooded crossing and submerged about two hours later - the occupants managed to free themselves.

A multi-agency response was initiated, including the Central West Police District, NSW SES, NSW Rural Fire Service and NSW Ambulance.

The four occupants were taken to Dubbo Base Hospital for observation.

The five-year-old boy’s body was located in the submerged car by police divers the following day.

Following a lengthy investigation, the man was arrested at Surry Hills police station on November 23, 2023.

He remains on conditional bail and will be excused from appearing at his next appearance on March 14.