Unlicensed driver allegedly kills former teacher's wife in Peakhurst crash
A man has faced court accused of the manslaughter of the wife of a teacher from his former school.
Revesby man Tyron Knodler, 21, appeared at Sutherland Local Court on Thursday where he was formally refused bail over 24 charges, including two counts of manslaughter following a car accident on Tuesday night resulted in the death of two women.
An ex-classmate of Mr Knodler, who did not wish to be named, told the Herald Mr Knodler attended Picnic Point High School where 58-year-old Tony Giorgio taught maths.
Mr Giorgio was injured in the crash, while his 62-year-old wife Gayle Gibson was killed.
The ex-classmate said it was "highly likely" Mr Knodler was taught by Mr Giorgio, who would often assist "struggling classes".
Picnic Point High School did not wish to comment.
Emergency services were called to the scene on Tuesday night at Henry Lawson Drive in Peakhurst after Mr Knodler allegedly crossed the median strip in a stolen vehicle, causing a head-on collision.
Mr Giorgio's wife Gayle Gibson, a teacher at Canterbury Girls' High School, was killed as well as 66-year-old Carol Chambers. Mr Giorgio and 62-year-old Kim Alden, a fourth person in the car, were injured in the crash and taken to St George Hospital before being released on Wednesday.
Police allege Mr Knodler stole the Toyota Landcruiser early Monday morning before stealing a bottle of Jim Beam from a Dan Murphy's in Bankstown around midday on Tuesday.
Mr Knodler, who has never held a licence, allegedly blew three times the legal limit - 0.166 - after crashing into the Honda Jazz around 8pm. He was also charged after failing to stop and assist.
Gayle Gibson, one of the two women who lost their lives, has been remembered as a "much-loved" teacher.
Canterbury Girls principal Sue Holden released a statement on Wednesday.
"Unfortunately we have today received some very sad news. Ms Gayle Gibson, a long-standing member of staff, has passed away overnight in a tragic traffic accident. Ms Gibson was a much loved member of staff and a former head teacher. Our sincere condolences go out to her family," the statement read.
Mr Knodler was charged with offences including two counts of manslaughter, two counts of aggravated dangerous driving causing death, two counts of aggravated dangerous driving causing grievous bodily harm and high-range drink driving.
He will return to court on May 13.