Jack Power’s family, school remember him after Blackburn North crossing crash
JACK Power died just one month shy of his 11th birthday after he was hit by a van in Blackburn North. Now his heartbroken mum wants to make sure her son’s death “stood for something”, calling for drivers to remember their cars are like “weapons”.
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THE family of a little boy who died after being hit by a van as he crossed the road say they want their devastating loss to lead to awareness of road safety.
Jack Power, 10, was crossing at a pedestrian light in Blackburn North with his little sister and their friend when he was struck on Saturday, the Hi-Ace narrowly avoiding the two girls.
In a powerful interview, Jack’s mother Bonnie Power has called for motorists to pay more attention while behind the wheel to prevent other families from experiencing the pain of losing a child.
Ms Power she was “heartbroken” but wanted to make sure her son’s death “stood for something”.
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“Let’s make a pledge that we try to stop this from happening again — enough is enough,” she told the Herald Sun.
“These types of accidents are on the rise and there’s just something wrong with the way we’re living our lives these days … there’s too many distractions.
“I think this can be used as a wake up call … I’m on a mission now for the greater good.”
Relatives and friends gathered at the Power family home in Croydon, bringing flowers and sharing memories of the “fabulous” youngster who they say lit up the lives of those around him.
Jack was walking a pedestrian crossing with his six-year-old sister Stephanie and friend Breena on the way to the shops, about 6.30pm.
Ms Power said the children had said they waited for the green light before crossing.
Police are investigating whether the van driver went through the red light.
Ms Power said motorists needed to remember their vehicles were like “weapons” and they needed to be on guard and mindful of becoming distracted.
“The piercing message to drivers is to be consciously driving to their destination,” she said.
“If that’s what they can do after reading this story then we have won because that’s going to save lives.”
Ms Power said she wanted the world to know about her son, who was remembered as a kind, compassionate, goofy boy who always followed his “internal moral compass”.
“He had such a profound effect on people,” she said.
“I am in pain and I will be forever heartbroken and always miss my son.
“But the love and support … it’s been overwhelming … The world is a beautiful place and I am so grateful for all the people that have sent messages.”
FAMILY, SCHOOL REMEMBERS ‘COMPASSIONATE’ BOY
The ten-year-old’s heartbroken parents have set up a Facebook page in memory of their son.
“Our darling Jack died on the 19th August 2018 which was exactly one month before his 11th birthday,” a statement on the page said.
“He was one of those rare individuals who was always caring and compassionate about others.
“His sudden death has been such a shock to so many of us — family, friends and even people who had just met him, that we all wanted to carry on his good work to make the world a better place.
“If you knew Jack can you please share a story about the impact he made on your life — for example, something funny he did, how he made you feel, how he impacted your life.”
The family had gathered at the Royal Children’s Hospital where Jack was being treated for head injuries. Police confirmed his life support was withdrawn on Tuesday.
The driver of the car, a 45-year-old Blackburn North man, was interviewed and released pending further inquiries.
Witness statements will help decide whether the man faces criminal charges.
Croydon Hills Primary School principal Graeme Caudry said the school was in shock over the tragic death of Jack.
They knew the Grade 5 student as a “compassionate” boy who helped those in need, Mr Caudry said.
“The whole Croydon Hills Primary School community has been in shock to find out the tragic news that Jack Power, one of our Year 5 students has died,” he said.
“Jack was hit by a car while crossing on a green light on a pedestrian crossing on Saturday night.
“Jack was a wonderful student who was known for his care and compassion towards his classmates.
“He was very kind inclusive boy, who embraced students with special needs.”
The day before the crash, the school had given Jack an award at assembly, recognising the care he showed for others.
Mr Caudry said Jack’s “thoughts were always about others”.
“He was just one of those student who others loved to be with and was highly regarded by his teachers,” he said.
“Jack was always aware of others people’s feelings and was prepared to step in and help.
“On hearing the sad news, one of our students fondly remembered his first day at school at the beginning of this year. At that time, Jack was the person who welcomed him and made him feel part to our school community.
“His compassion was evident with his recent trip to Sri Lanka, where he was part of a group fundraising to support rural families.
“The power of Jack’s goodness will live on in our school community.”
Police believe the driver braked in an attempt to avoid hitting Jack and detectives are investigating whether the driver had run a red light.
Major Collision detective Sergeant Darren Williams said: “All indications are at this early point that the kids were doing everything right.”
The motorist allegedly stopped at the scene and began first aid.
“The girls, we understand, were in front of him, and something attracted their attention, be it the sound of the car approaching or what, we don’t quite know,” Sgt Williams said.
“They were able to sort of scamper out the way, but the young fellow couldn’t, unfortunately.
“After he was hit, the car came to a stop, the driver got out of his car and was able to render first aid.
“They (the girls) were on the other side of the road … they were upset and hysterical.”
The account of another pedestrian, and those of the uninjured children, will help investigators determine whether the driver was speeding or ran a red light.
Leading Senior Constable Natalie Dean said the police investigation continued and anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via crimestoppersvic.com.au