Alleged hit-run driver has 'checked on boy's condition', lawyer says
A 21-year-old learner driver who allegedly hit a two-year-old boy in Melbourne’s south-west and fled has appeared in court, with his lawyer saying the young man is concerned for the child's welfare.
Damon Michell was hospitalised with serious injuries after he was hit outside his home in Railway Avenue, Laverton just before 9pm on Sunday.
Zachary Larkins, who has been charged with failing to stop, failing to render assistance and driving without a full licence holder, fronted the Melbourne Magistrates Court on Friday
Supported by his mother and wearing a dark suit, Mr Larkins stood quietly during the brief hearing.
His lawyer, Glenn Thexton, said outside court that Mr Larkins has been co-operating with police and had "kept on checking for updates on the boy's condition".
Mr Larkins was arrested not long after the Holden Commodore he had allegedly been driving was found dumped in the carpark of an Altona Meadows shopping centre.
He had been on bail since his arrest and on Friday his bail was extended until his next appearance before the court on December 3.
It's understood Damon got out through a side fence at the property and his mother and brother had rushed from the home to try and collect him.
On Tuesday the boy's family released a statement saying Damon was still in an induced coma at the Royal Children’s Hospital but his condition was improving and it was hoped he would be moved out of the intensive care unit and into a ward soon.
The statement called what happened a “terrible accident”.
“Hate, being angry and blaming anyone is not going to help Damon in any shape or form. Our one main focus during this whole time has been making sure Damon is getting the care that he needs and back to good health.”
Laverton resident Gurinder Singh said neighbours had flocked to help the family after the collision.
“The guy did not stop ... my friend’s bedroom looks over the street and he heard the bang and went outside and the mother, she was screaming.”
A fundraising page has been set-up for the toddler by relatives to help with the costs of his medical care.
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