A tragic incident unfolded in Sydney's south-west, resulting in the loss of a young brother and sister's lives. The incident occurred when a luxury car, believed to be stolen, veered onto the wrong side of the road, colliding head-on with their silver Toyota Echo on Sadleir Avenue in Heckenberg.
The victims, 24-year-old Alina Kauffman and her 15-year-old brother Ernesto Salazar, tragically lost their lives at the scene. Heartbreakingly, the elder sister had been on her way to pick up her younger sibling after he had completed his shift at a new job.
CCTV footage obtained captured the Mercedes speeding past a residence just before the collision. Following the initial crash, the Mercedes continued its destructive path, colliding with a stationary Toyota Rav4 and overturning.
In a deeply concerning turn of events, the occupants of the Mercedes, three individuals in total, fled the scene and entered a fourth vehicle, identified as a VW Golf. This VW Golf was subsequently intercepted by the police, leading to the arrest of an 18-year-old male from the vehicle.
Assistant Commissioner Boyd expressed his strong disapproval of such behaviour, describing it as abhorrent. He emphasized the importance of helping in such situations, as providing first aid could potentially have saved lives.
As investigations went underway, it was found that Johnson Kokozian was accused of driving the Mercedes involved in the collision. Johnson Kokozian, aged 20, made a virtual appearance in the Parramatta Bail Court on Sunday. He faces a range of charges, including two charges of dangerous driving resulting in death. When refused bail Mr. Kokozian exhibited visible distress, breaking into tears and exclaiming, "I'm a father – why would I engage in such actions?"
Despite these circumstances, Magistrate Robert Rabbidge declined to grant bail, citing an "overwhelming case”, and highlighting the initial appearance that Mr. Kokozian was the driver.
While acknowledging Mr. Kokozian's role as a devoted father and considering the extensive letter from his partner regarding the necessity for treatment, the magistrate described the alleged behaviour as "appalling." He emphasized that the community's sense of disappointment and anger was warranted and appropriate.
