A press release from the New South Wales Police Force announces that a driver has been charged following investigations into the death of a child in floodwaters last year. Police say emergency services responded to McGrane Way at Tullamore on 23 September 2022 just before 8 PM following reports that two vehicles had been swept into floodwaters. According to police inquiries, the first vehicle, a Toyota Hilux with five occupants, became submerged around 5 PM at the Genaren Creek crossing.

A male driver, a 28-year-old woman, a young boy, and a young girl exited the vehicle and clung to trees. A five-year-old boy became trapped inside the vehicle. Roughly two hours later, a second vehicle entered the crossing and became submerged as well. The occupants of the second vehicle freed themselves and found the occupants of the Hilux still clinging to trees. They were able to alert emergency services.

A boat was used to rescue the family while the occupants of the second vehicle were uninjured. A search operation was carried out on 24 September to try to retrieve the Hilux. Around 3.20 PM, authorities found the boy’s body in the submerged vehicle. Following an extensive investigation from Central West Police District detectives, the 38-year-old driver was arrested at the Surry Hills Police Station.

The driver has been charged with manslaughter and related charges.