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Family breaks silence after man accused of running over kids gets bail

The family of an Aboriginal boy who was run over by a ute in Mildura's town centre has spoken for the first time after the incident, calling on politicians to re-examine bail laws.

Family breaks silence after man accused of running over kids gets bail

A family member of an Aboriginal boy seriously injured in a hit-and-run incident has spoken out after the accused driver was granted bail. The incident occurred last Thursday night in Mildura, when two 12-year-old boys were struck by a ute travelling at high speed. The family member expressed deep concern over the bail laws, questioning whether they provide adequate protection for alleged victims of serious crime.

The boys sustained severe injuries, with one requiring surgery and the other suffering concussion and minor arm injuries. One of the boys was left under the vehicle and Mr Brien, the accused, stepped over them without offering assistance. CCTV footage showed Mr Brien's vehicle narrowly missing the boys, U-turning, and colliding with them at high speed.

The court granted bail to Mr Brien, subject to restrictions on driving and curfew, noting his lack of prior convictions and the long delay until trial. The family member emphasized the trauma experienced by the children and their families, calling for better protection and support within the justice system.

Written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

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