Heartbreaking tributes for Clifton Hill model, Elise Hodder, killed in Kooyong car park crash
The 24-year-old woman killed when she was struck by a car at a gathering in Kooyong on Sunday has been identified as “bubbly, bright” Clifton Hill model Elise Hodder, with tributes flowing.
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The 24-year-old woman killed when she was struck by a car at a rave in Kooyong on Sunday morning has been identified as Clifton Hill model Elise Hodder.
A 23-year-old Sunbury man has since been charged after he allegedly struck a group of pedestrians in a car park at Sir Zelman Cowen Park, off Glenferrie Rd about 1.10am.
The man who was allegedly behind the wheel of the car when it hit and killed Ms Hodder, 23-year-old Sunbury man Connor Mathiasson, has offered his condolences to the victim’s family.
Ms Hodder, who is understood to have come from a large policing family, died at the scene, while a 26-year-old woman was taken to hospital with serious injuries.
A 25-year-old man was also struck but was not physically injured.
Ms Hodder’s parents, Michael and Pauline, said Elise “was a beautiful, beautiful soul with a radiance that touched everybody”.
“Her presence, respect for others and calmness is what the world was lucky to have. Our hearts are broken but devoted to supporting family and her friends,” they said.
Ms Hodder’s aunt, Cath Jean, returned to the scene of the crash on Monday to lay flowers for her niece.
“She was a beautiful, tall woman (with) lovely long arms and legs and she would just wrap herself around you and say how are you?,” Ms Jean said.
“We adored her, she was just a beautiful soul,” she said.
Ms Hodder — a model with FiveTwenty Model Management — shared photos on her social media of a shoot that had been published in Vanguard magazine less than a week ago.
In a statement, FiveTwenty Model Management said there was “deep sadness” surrounding the tragedy.
“Elise was such a delight to work with. She was very curious about the industry and gave it her all, always showing up with a bubbly, bright attitude,” FiveTwenty Model Management said.
“Our condolences go out to her family and friends. Her presence and place in our hearts will never be forgotten. Rest in Peace beautiful girl.”
Friends and loved ones of Ms Hodder left flowers and messages at Sir Zelman Cowen Park in a makeshift memorial.
Nearly a dozen bouquets of flowers could be seen on Monday, together with heartfelt — and heartbreaking — messages for a special soul.
Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives charged Mr Mathiasson on Sunday night, with culpable driving causing death, dangerous driving causing death, negligently causing serious injury and unlicensed driving.
Barrister George Balot, who is representing the driver, said his client was remorseful following the incident.
“He wishes to express his profound heartfelt sympathy to the family of the deceased and the pedestrian in hospital,” Mr Balot said.
“I wish to pass to the family his deepest condolences during this difficult time.”
He has been remanded to face the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on October 14.
Mr Mathiasson is understood to have also been an attendee at the party.
He was allegedly drunk and under the influence of cannabis when he got behind the wheel of his car as police arrived to break up the party.
Witnesses said as he reversed his vehicle, he allegedly hit several people including Ms Hodder.
She became trapped beneath the vehicle and died of her injuries.
Another woman suffered leg injuries and will require ankle surgery.
Mr Balot confirmed Mr Mathiasson’s license was expired at the time of the fatal collision.
He is seeking bail, with a decision to be handed down on Tuesday.
“My client was cooperative with the police. He stopped at the scene of the collision to render assistance however police were also present and they offered assistance to the injured and dying,” Mr Balot said.
“He is a shattered and devastated young man who through me conveys his deepest condolences to the Hodder family.”
Anyone who witnessed the incident, has CCTV or any other information that could assist police is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at crimestoppersvic.com.au.
Originally published as Heartbreaking tributes for Clifton Hill model, Elise Hodder, killed in Kooyong car park crash
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