A three-year-old girl who was critically injured in a multi-vehicle crash last week has sadly passed away.
The girl’s parents shared a heartbreaking tribute to Ineza and her one-year-old sister Itahe, who was also injured in the crash at Banya.
“It is with great sadness we share the passing of our Ineza. True to her name, which means ‘kindness’, Ineza was full of life and energy,” the family said in a statement.
“She loved her family and friends, outdoor adventures, bedtime stories and having her beautiful hair styled by her mummy. Ineza’s favourite saying, ‘sharing is caring’, reflects her beautiful spirit.
“Her sister, Itahe, is still in a critical condition, but we know her inner strength will carry her through this difficult time. She has the most beautiful nature, a calm and resilient strength, and a love of solving problems.
“We would like to share our sincere thanks to the community for the support we have received.
“We extend that gratitude to the first responders, emergency services and the staff at the Queensland Children’s Hospital for the care they have provided to our family.”
The Forensic Crash Unit is continuing to investigate the crash at Banya on January 8.
Initial investigations indicate that about 11.40am a Mitsubishi Fuso truck collided with the rear of a silver Nissan Qashqai in the westbound lane of Banya Avenue near the intersection with Bruny Street.
The truck continued along Banya Avenue before colliding with the rear of a blue Haval station wagon stopped in a line of traffic at the intersection with Great Keppel Way.
A black Toyota Rav4 and a white Toyota Hiace, which were in front of the Haval station wagon, were also struck.
Ineza, who was a rear passenger in the Haval, sustained critical injuries and was airlifted to Queensland Children’s Hospital, where she passed away yesterday.
Itahe was initially transported to Sunshine Coast University Hospital and then later transported to the Queensland Children’s Hospital.
A number of other people were transported to Sunshine Coast University Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, including the 37-year-old female driver of the Haval.
The 52-year-old male truck driver received minor injuries and was also transported to SCUH for treatment.
Anyone who witnessed the crash or may have relevant CCTV or dashcam footage is urged to contact police.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting. Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au. Quote this reference number: QP2600047997.
