Child Injured in Crash Leads to Arrest for Attempted Murder and Domestic Violence Violations

A serious crash in northern New South Wales has resulted in the arrest of a 23-year-old man on multiple charges, including attempted murder and breaches of domestic violence orders. Emergency services were called to the rural area of West Bungawalbin just before 9:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 10, following reports of a single-vehicle crash into a pole.

Officers from the Richmond Police District arrived on the scene on Avenue Road, approximately 30 kilometers west of Woodburn. The vehicle’s driver, a 23-year-old male, sustained minor injuries and was treated on-site by paramedics from NSW Ambulance (New South Wales Ambulance) before being transported to Lismore Base Hospital in stable condition.

Also in the vehicle was a 17-month-old girl, who likewise suffered minor injuries and was taken to the same hospital for treatment. Authorities later confirmed the child’s involvement raised serious concerns, leading to a broader investigation.

Detectives from Strike Force Haynes, a unit established under the Richmond Police District to investigate serious incidents, took over the case. Following days of inquiries, police arrested the man upon his release from the hospital at approximately 3:15 p.m. on Sunday, July 13.

The suspect was taken to Lismore Police Station and charged with five separate offenses: attempted murder (domestic violence-related), causing bodily harm by willful neglect, being in charge of a motor vehicle without proper authorization, two counts of contravening an Apprehended Violence Order (AVO), and stalking or intimidating with intent to cause fear of physical harm.

Police confirmed the man was refused bail and will face Bail Division Court 1 on Monday, July 14. The AVO violations indicate ongoing domestic violence concerns, adding a layer of gravity to the charges. As investigations continue, questions will likely be raised about how someone already subject to legal restrictions was in a position to commit such serious acts.

This incident adds to a growing list of violent episodes that underline ongoing gaps in enforcement and public safety, especially when it comes to protecting vulnerable children from repeat domestic offenders. Community safety should not be sacrificed due to leniency toward individuals with violent histories, especially when court orders have already been issued.

Authorities have not yet released further details about the child’s relationship to the accused, citing privacy and the ongoing legal process. However, the case serves as a stark reminder of the need for stronger follow-through when it comes to domestic violence protections and the potentially devastating consequences when systems fail to act decisively.