A Western Australian grandfather, Johnny Gray, aged 60, has tragically died following a head-on collision that left his cherished pink Chevrolet in ruins. Gray was well-known among local car enthusiasts and was last seen leaving a car meet in Alkimos, located in Perth’s northern area, when the accident occurred.
The incident took place just after 8 pm on the Mitchell Freeway off-ramp near Butler Boulevard, where his classic vehicle collided with a Ford Ranger. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but unfortunately, Gray could not be saved.
His wife expressed her grief, describing him as a devoted husband and father with an exceptionally kind heart. “He had the biggest heart and touched everyone he met,” she stated. “His presence lit up every room, and life will never be the same without him.” Friends, including David Johnson, remembered him fondly as a prominent figure in the community, referring to him as a “big cuddly teddy bear.”
The driver of the Ford Ranger, a 35-year-old man, is currently recovering from serious injuries at Royal Perth Hospital.
Authorities are still investigating the circumstances of the crash, with local residents suggesting that confusion at the intersection might have contributed to the accident. Witnesses mentioned that signage at the location could be misleading, as some had nearly taken the wrong exit due to unclear directions. “Better signage needs to be put there,” remarked local resident Felicia Hartmann.
This tragic event adds to a concerning rise in road fatalities in Western Australia, bringing the current toll to 141, the highest figure observed in nearly ten years.