UPDATE: A truck driver has been sentenced to 12 years and 9 months in prison after a devastating crash involving a school bus in Victoria. Brett Michael Russell, who knew his vehicle’s brakes were faulty, faced Judge Michael O’Connell in the County Court of Victoria today, where he learned his fate for the horrific incident that occurred on September 21, 2022.
The crash took place on the Western Highway near Bacchus Marsh, where Russell’s truck collided with a bus carrying students from Loreto College. The impact was catastrophic, pushing the bus through a barrier and down a steep embankment, resulting in multiple serious injuries among the students and staff onboard.
Judge O’Connell recounted the prosecution’s case, revealing that Russell had been aware of severe brake issues just three days prior to the accident but chose to continue driving due to a lack of available trucks. He had driven two trailers to South Australia and swapped them for others returning to Melbourne, despite being warned by another driver that the new trailers’ brakes were “stuffed.” Russell later admitted to police, “I thought I was still fine,” indicating a troubling disregard for safety.
Just moments before the crash, Russell reported having “used up” his air brakes while descending a steep hill. He admitted to realizing the danger he was in as he approached a corner with a speed limit reduced from 110 km/h to 40 km/h due to an unrelated incident. “Come around the corner I’d seen the sign and knew I was f–ked,” he stated. The truck, weighing 62 tonnes, was unstoppable under those conditions.
The emotional toll of the crash has left lasting scars on the victims and their families. Judge O’Connell detailed the extensive injuries suffered by the bus occupants, including partial amputations, broken bones, and psychological trauma. “For many, this was a nightmare,” he emphasized, highlighting the catastrophic impact on both the victims and the wider community.
In a poignant moment, Russell expressed regret, stating he wished he had chosen to drive off the road himself instead, to spare the school group the “hell they’re going through.” His remorse, however, did not mitigate the court’s response.
Judge O’Connell noted that Russell had shown an understanding of the consequences of his actions, contributing to his prosecution with frank admissions to police. He will be eligible for parole after serving eight years of his sentence.
This tragic case serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of vehicle safety and the devastating effects of negligence on innocent lives. As the community grapples with the aftermath, attention will turn to the ongoing support needed for those affected by this horrific event.
