David Peter Hall: Alleged killer driver’s trial delayed due to cyclone, tram woes

The trial of a Gold Coast motorist who allegedly struck and killed an elderly pedestrian at Helensvale has been deferred, with Chief Judge telling jurors an hour after the trial was due to commence.

Upper Coomera man David Peter Hall (left), 60, leaving Southport Courthouse on March 3, 2025. Picture: Alex Treacy

The trial of a Gold Coast motorist who allegedly struck and killed an elderly pedestrian at Helensvale has been deferred at the eleventh hour in part due to Cyclone Alfred.

Thge Chief Judge told jurors he made the call in light of Tropical Cyclone Alfred’s approach and a meltdown on the local tram network.

The trial of Upper Coomera man David Peter Hall, 60, was due to commence at 10am Monday.

Mr Hall is charged with one count of dangerous operation of or interference with a vehicle causing death or grievous bodily harm.

The scene of the alleged incident at Helensvale. Picture: Jacob Miley

The Crown alleges Mr Hall struck and killed an 87-year-old pedestrian at a service station at the intersection of Millaroo Drive and Millennium Circuit, Helensvale, on February 25, 2022.

Mr Hall has pleaded not guilty.

Jurors were called into the courtroom just after 11am to be told their services were no longer required.

The scene of the alleged incident at Helensvale. Picture: Jacob Miley

Chief Judge Brian Devereaux SC said the combination of TC Alfred’s approach and G:link issues meant there was a “shortage of jurors available today”.

Criminal trials require a large pool of potential jurors initially, as both the prosecution and defence have the right of veto over any person whose name is drawn from the ballot.

Chief Judge Devereaux described the tram meltdown – caused by a powerline fault and lasting about four hours – as an additional “extenuating circumstance”.

The expected four-day trial was relisted for next Monday, with a mention later this week to finalise arrangements.

Originally published as David Peter Hall: Alleged killer driver’s trial delayed due to cyclone, tram woes