William Taylor identified as man killed in horror alleged hit-and-run

The victim of the horrific alleged hit-and-run crash has been identified, as his devastated family pay tribute to their beloved son and brother.

The victim of a horror alleged hit-and-run crash in Melbourne has been identified as 28-year-old William Taylor, with his heartbroken family revealing their devastation.

Emergency services were called to the intersection of Warrigal and Highbury Rd at Burwood on Tuesday night after an allegedly stolen Jeep Cherokee T-boned Mr Taylor’s Toyota hatchback.

“Will was a much loved son, brother, partner and friend,” the family wrote in a statement.

“He was a quiet, intelligent and thoughtful young man who loved his sport.

William Taylor died in an alleged hit-and-run crash in Burwood, Melbourne on Tuesday night. Picture: Victoria Police

“We are heartbroken and ask our privacy is respected as we come to terms with this devastating loss.”

Mr Taylor, a trainee doctor, died when his Toyota hatchback was T-boned by an allegedly stolen Jeep Cherokee about 7pm.

He passed away at the scene.

Six teenagers were in the Jeep when it hit Mr Taylor’s vehicle.

Two teenage girls, aged 15, were arrested at the scene and have since been charged with theft of a motor vehicle.

Four young males fled on foot, with a 17-year-old arrested on Wednesday evening in Malvern East.

The police have charged the private schoolboy with multiple offences including, culpable driving causing death, dangerous driving causing death, fail to stop and render assistance, theft of motor vehicle and unlicensed driving.

The boy appeared before the children’s court on Friday, where he was granted bail.

William Taylor was a keen soccer player and played for Ashburton United. Picture: Supplied

It is understood three other males are still on the run.

Mr Taylor held a passion for soccer and his former club, Ashburton United, has paid tribute to the young man in a touching post to social media.

“Ashy was devastated to learn of the passing of our former player, Will Taylor,” the club wrote.

“Will was an Ashy junior who progressed through the ranks to our first team, helping the team gain promotion to State 3.

“A wonderful young man, he was one of the world’s genuine nice guys.

“Despite his quiet and unassuming style, he was a force on the field, a gifted player who never backed down, always giving his all for the team and the club.

“The football community has lost one of the true servants of the game and the world is now a sadder place without our mate Wilba.

“Our deepest condolences go to Nick, Denise and the rest of his family.

“Our thoughts are with you.”