Damien Tiahaiere Rakatau, 41, charged over Truganina fatal remains in hospital
A MAN charged over a horror car crash that left two kids dead remains in hospital and has been unable to attend his second court hearing.
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A MAN charged over a horror car crash that left two kids dead remains in hospital and has been unable to attend his second court hearing.
Police allege Damien Tiahaiere Rakatau, 41, was trying to overtake another vehicle when he hit another car travelling in the opposite direction head-on.
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In that car were Ruana George, 10, and her brother Immanuel, 4, who both died from devastating injuries.
Ruana died at the scene on Saturday while doctors at the Royal Children’s Hospital battled to save her younger brother, affectionately known as “Manu”.
Police confirmed on Monday that the small boy had also lost his life.
Their father, George Panicker, was also injured but is recovering in hospital while their mother Manju George — a nurse — remains in a critical condition.
Mr Rakatau, from Rockbank, faces two counts of culpable driving and negligence causing serious injury over the crash at Truganina, in Melbourne’s west.
His case went before the Melbourne Magistrates Court for the second time since he was charged on Tuesday.
Prosecutors successfully applied for a longer than usual 12 weeks to complete a brief of evidence.
They require the extra time to await toxicology reports to be prepared, the court heard.
Five people inside the another vehicle hit were not injured.
The force of the crash sent the vehicles involved flying off the road, with debris sprayed more than 50 metres.
Mr Rakatau remains in custody in a secure hospital ward where he is recovering from serious injuries.
Anyone who witnessed the collision is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at crimestoppersvic.com.au