The mourning father of a teenage girl who died in a high-speed crash last week has shared his grief at losing his “baby girl”.
Jacqueline Vodden died at the scene where the van she was travelling in crashed after a police chase along the Western Highway near Ballan.
The allegedly stolen Hiace van collided with two trucks about 2.30pm on Tuesday (September 19).
Police said the van failed to stop when ordered to do so and had been pursued near the Ballan-Daylesford Road turnoff on the Western Highway for about four minutes when the crash occurred.
Jacqueline’s father, Scott Vodden, told of his heartache on Facebook.
“As I sit here, pain and emotions with tears running down my face … this is the hardest thing I have to write and no parent should have to [do this],” he posted.
“I’m one of the proudest dads you will
ever meet when I found out your mum was pregnant I was the happiest person in the
world.
“So many fun times, just me and you, I have so many memories.
“I never wanted to miss … walking my baby girl down the aisle on her wedding day as I know you would of been stunning as you were the most gorgeous girl in the world.”
Jacqueline is remembered by her father as a girl with a “heart of gold”.
“I will never never ever forget you until we meet again love you and give Grandma and Grandad a hug and kiss from me, I will talk to you from time to time, don’t give cheek back … You’re now my angel.”
A male teen, believed to be the driver of the vehicle, fled the crash scene, triggering a manhunt in nearby bushland.
Police arrested a 17-year-old in the Ballarat suburb of Wendouree West on Tuesday.
On Wednesday night, he faced an out-of-sessions court hearing. He was charged with culpable driving, dangerous driving causing death, conduct endangering life, theft of motor vehicle, aggravated burglary, burglary and other offences.
He was remanded to appear at a children’s court at a later date.
An investigation into the incident will be overseen by Professional Standards Command as per normal procedure.
Anyone who witnessed the crash or with dash cam footage is being asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
