Firefighters recognised for ‘heroic service’ during deadly Truganina crash

Firefighters who attended the scene of Victoria’s deadliest crash last year have been honoured for their service, as homicide squad detectives continue to investigate.

Firefighters who attended the scene of Victoria’s deadliest crash last year have been honoured for their heroic service, as police continue to investigate.

Six males, aged between 15 and 20, were travelling in a grey sedan on Dohertys Road in Truganina about 7.30pm on September 30 when the car collided with a truck.

Four of the occupants died at the scene, including Kevin “Memo” Reech, 16, and cousins Saeed Husen, 17, and Ilyas Abdullahi, 15, while two others were rushed to hospital with life-threatening injuries.

In October, police released terrifying footage of the vehicle allegedly being confronted by a group of men minutes before the crash, leading the homicide squad to launch an investigation.

Four males were killed on Dohertys Road in Truganina on September 30, 2021. Picture: Josie Hayden

On March 9, the Country Fire Association presented Truganina Fire Brigade with a chief officer’s commendation for their “utmost professionalism” responding to the tragic incident.

Chief officer Jason Heffernan said the response by the brigade to the “complex and challenging incident” was worthy of recognition.

“I am incredibly grateful for the response of our crews and other emergency services who did everything they could in the face of an horrific road crash scene,” he said.

Truganina Fire Brigade captain Mark Hatton said the crew were not in the job for recognition, but were “honoured” to receive a commendation.

“I joined CFA as a volunteer when I was 18 years old, I was young and had a lot of spare time, and it has now become a lifelong passion,” he said.

“The brigade and I are dedicated to serving our community and we’re honoured to receive this award.”

Truganina Fire Brigade Captain Mark Hatton and CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan. Picture: Country Fire Association.

A police spokeswoman on Tuesday confirmed no charges had been laid but said inquiries were ongoing.

Homicide squad Detective Inspector Dean Thomas said investigators were working to uncover the circumstances which led to the crash.

“Our mind is very much open as to why this has occurred,” he said.

Insp Thomas said police believe the alleged attack was not random and the groups were known to each other.