Huon Valley woman may stand trial for dangerous driving following the death of Jari Wise

A Huon Valley woman may soon stand trial on a charge of dangerous driving following the road death of her former partner, Jari Wise.

• Melissa Oates faces fresh charges after Huonville road death of Jari Wise
• Melissa Oates case almost marks one year anniversary as court hears of little progress made by prosecution

THE former girlfriend of deceased Huonville man Jari Wise may stand trial this year over a charge of dangerous driving.

Melissa Oates, 34, appeared in the Supreme Court of Tasmania on Monday, with a number of Mr Wise’s loved ones holding banners and placards outside emblazoned with “Justice 4 Jari”.

Ms Oates, who has not been charged with causing Mr Wise’s death, has not yet entered a plea to the count of dangerous driving.

Loved ones of deceased man Jari Wise outside the Supreme Court of Tasmania on Monday.. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

Chief Justice Alan Blow adjourned the case to March 1, with Ms Oates remanded on bail to reappear on that date.

The court heard the matter may go to trial, and that full disclosure of documents between parties had been made.

After the hearing, Ms Oates left the court amid a group of Mr Wise’s supporters, who chanted “justice for Jari”, and a handful of police officers.

Jari Wise, 26, died in the early hours of February 29 last year after he was struck by a car while walking along Wilmot Road at Huonville.

Mr Wise’s death has shaken the Huon Valley community.

Protestors held banners emblazoned with “Justice 4 Jari”. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

Police were in attendance as Melissa Oates attended the Supreme Court of Tasmania for the first time. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

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