A driver has been charged with the alleged hit and run death of a young footballer in country Victoria.
Police allege Jordan Purcell was left for dead on the side of the road in Alexandra, northeast of Melbourne, after he was struck by light-coloured Toyota HiLux two years ago.
The 20-year-old died on the way to hospital after being found lying injured in Hall St about 12.15am on June 16, 2019.
After a prolonged investigation lasting more than two years, police confirmed on Friday morning that major collision investigation unit detectives had charged a man over Mr Purcell’s death.
A 25-year-old Alexandra man has been charged with six offences, including culpable and dangerous driving causing death, failing to stop after accident causing death, failing to render assistance after an accident causing death, reckless conduct endangering life and reckless conduct endangering serious injury.
The man has been bailed to face Benalla Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.
The charges comes after his family made an impassioned plea for information last November.
His mum, Sue Weinberg, said her son was a “young, vibrant and talented” man who was passionate about all sports, especially cricket, football and basketball.
Mr Purcell had spent the day playing football with his beloved Alexandra Rebels Football Club, having grown up and completed his schooling in the small country town.
He attended a social function that evening and was walking home to a mate’s place to meet up with teammates when he was allegedly hit by the car on Hall St.
Sister Ebony Purcell said her brother’s death had totally devastated their family.
“He was just 20 years old, he had his whole life in front of him and we had so much to share with him,” she said.
“Every birthday, Christmas, special occasion and family get-together is a stark reminder that he is no longer with us.”
She said her brother was “energetic, cheeky and sometime mischievous” and kept them entertained with his quick wit and humour.
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