A quiet morning school drop-off turned chaotic at Umina Beach on July 31 when a stolen vehicle collided with a taxi, sending it crashing into a home, while parents and children arrived at nearby Umina Beach Public School.
The crash occurred at about 8.45am at the corner of Hobart Ave and Melbourne Ave.
Police, Fire & Rescue, NSW Ambulance and a tow truck were all called to the scene, which remained active into the late morning.
NSW Police said a silver Toyota Corolla and a taxi collided at the intersection, resulting in the taxi mounting the kerb and crashing into the front verandah of a corner property.
The 72-year-old male taxi driver was uninjured, while his 25-year-old female passenger sustained minor injuries.
Occupants of the home were not hurt, but there was structural damage to the verandah.
Fire and Rescue personnel worked to stabilise the front of the house.
The incident took place during the busy morning peak, just metres from Umina Beach Public School on Hobart Ave.
Parents dropping off young children were caught in the traffic and witnessed the large emergency response.
Members of the school community have recently raised concerns about traffic management and road safety on Hobart Ave, in light of the State Government’s plan to build an on-site carpark to support a proposed preschool on school grounds.
Vice-President of the Umina Beach Public School P&C Association Nellie Feeney said this was a prime example of what could happen in an instant.
“We are so grateful no children were hurt,” she said.
She recalled another incident during school hours when a car crashed into two stationary vehicles.
“Any future developments need to consider the consequences of traffic accidents in a school zone,” she said.
“Thoughtful planning for the safety of our kids is paramount.”
Nellie Feeney
Following the crash, police were informed that the Corolla continued briefly onto Osborne St, where two or three males were seen running from the vehicle south along the road.
Police canvassed the area with the assistance of the Dog Squad, but the suspects were not located.
Investigations have since confirmed the Toyota Corolla was stolen from Morisset sometime between Tuesday, July 29, and Wednesday, July 30.
The vehicle has been seized by police for forensic examination.
Officers from Brisbane Water Police District continue to investigate and are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has dashcam or mobile footage to come forward.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Gosford Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Information can be provided anonymously.
Ivona Rose
