Christopher Joannidis pleads guilty to crash that killed five people in Victoria

·

Christopher Joannidis has pleaded guilty to a deadly crash that claimed the lives of five people in northern Victoria last year.

Mr Joannidis was driving a white Mercedes when he was pulled over before the accident for speeding in Yarroweyah on Thursday, 20 April 2023.

The crash occurred two kilometres away when Mr Joannidis’ car collided with a ute, causing it to hit an oncoming truck near the New South Wales border.

Debbie Markey, 62, and overseas workers Pin-Yu Wang, Hsin-Yu Chen, Wai Yan Lam and Zih-Yao Chen were killed in the smash.

joannides
The Strathmerton crash is the deadliest in the state in more than a decade. Picture: Ian Currie.

Police alleged that Mr Joannidis was travelling at 118km/h in a 100km/h zone and charged him with five counts of dangerous driving causing death after he admitted to being the driver of the Mercedes. Mr Joannidis also returned a positive test for cannabis, although a follow-up reading was negative.

At the time, Assistant Commissioner Glenn Weir said it was Victoria’s deadliest road crash in more than a decade.

Mr Joannidis was set to face trial later this month in Shepparton after pleading not guilty to the charges. However, he faced the County Court in Melbourne today and changed his plea.

“Guilty,” Mr Joannidis said, when asked his response to the charges.

Mr Joannidis, who is out on bail, was supported by family members in court and will face a pre-sentence hearing on November 27.

Source: ABC News.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

From Metallica to Maritime: The many lives of Greek shipping tycoon Harry Vafias

Though Greek shipping tycoon, Harry Vafias, spends much time working, it certainly isn't a case of 'all work and no play.’

‘I want them to know their word matters’: Peter Georgiou stands against gender violence

Peter Georgiou, a real estate agent from Rushcutters Bay and father of four-year-old twins Leila and Lola, believes change begins at home.

Thessaloniki’s Byzantine walls to shine with new light project

Thessaloniki’s iconic Byzantine Walls are set to be illuminated under a major cultural initiative announced by the Greek Ministry of Culture.

Greek World Heritage Cities face rising climate threats

Iconic Greek cities—Athens, Thessaloniki, Corfu, Rhodes, and Patmos—face serious climate threats, according to a new UNESCO-backed report.

Are apps like Duolingo enough to learn Greek, or do we need a tutor?

For many people who want to learn conversational Greek, an app, can be a very useful addition to your program.

You May Also Like

Greeks and Australians share concerns over 5G health impacts

The Australian government are responding to the Australian publics health concerns over 5G technology, which came after the Kalamata Council's delay of 5G.

‘Bridging the gap’: Maria Anthony on the importance of intergenerational programs

Maria Anthony implements intergenerational programs which ‘bridge the gap’ between the young and elderly, and bring joy into their lives.

Hundreds enjoy classic cars and Greek delights at Liverpool’s Summer Paniyiri

The Summer Paniyiri Car Show in Liverpool was a spectacular celebration of Greek culture, community spirit, and classic cars.