Caleb Wesley remembered as curious, kind boy after Teesdale alleged hit-run

A six-year-old student killed in a tragic alleged hit-run on Thursday has been remembered as a curious boy who was fascinated by the world around him.

Caleb Wesley died on Thursday when he was fatally struck in an alleged hit-run. Picture: Supplied

A six-year-old from Geelong has been remembered as a curious boy who was fascinated by the world around him after he was fatally struck in an alleged hit-run on Thursday.

Caleb Wesley was walking along Bannockburn-Shelford Rd in Teesdale to catch a bus to Covenant College in Bell Post Hill when the tragedy occurred.

An 84-year-old woman stopped at the scene but police allege she then got back into her vehicle and drove away.

She was released from custody on Thursday night pending further enquiries.

Covenant College principal Joshua McEwen said Caleb was a “curious and wonderful little boy”.

Covenant College student Caleb Wesley. Picture: Supplied

“He was known as one of the first to show kindness to others,” he said.

“He loved learning, loved reading books and was fascinated by the world around him.

“Just last week, Caleb mentioned being excited about getting his first wobbly tooth and he was wondering what losing a tooth would feel like.

“Caleb and his family loved Jesus Christ and they put their trust and hope in Him.”

Tributes continue to grow at the scene of the tragedy with locals leaving flowers, teddy bears, drawings and a sports jersey.

Flowers and teddy bears at the scene of the tragedy on Friday morning. Picture: Alison Wynd

Flowers and teddy bears at the scene of the tragedy on Friday morning. Picture: Alison Wynd

Mr McEwen said he met with Caleb’s family on Thursday night.

“They are grieving and they are sad and they are very appreciative of the support that’s been offered to them,” he said.

The school community gathered at the college on Friday morning to grieve and pray together and in-class support has been offered to students.

Mr McEwen said local churches and other schools have reached out to the college to offer their support.

Covenant College principal Joshua McEwen speaks to the media on Friday morning. Picture: Alison Wynd

He said so many communities have been impacted by Caleb’s death.

“There will be days and weeks and months ahead of ongoing support,” Mr McEwen said.

“Our prayers are with the many others who have been impacted by this tragedy including those who witnessed it, assisted at the scene as well as the driver and her family.

“Please keep Caleb’s family, and our school community in your prayers as we journey through this challenging time together.”

Inspector Craig McEvoy from the Major Collision Investigation Unit said Caleb was walking with his nine-year-old brother and 12-year-old sister at the time.

He said Teesdale residents would continue to wrap their arms around Caleb’s family.

“It’s a small town and many local residents drive by this area everyday,” he said.

“It’s an image some won’t be able to remove from their minds.”

Originally published as Caleb Wesley remembered as curious, kind boy after Teesdale alleged hit-run