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 Anzac driver taking photos before crash 

Anzac driver taking photos before crash

06 May, 2010 01:09 PM
THE devastated driver of a vintage army truck that ploughed into a group of veterans at Melbourne's Anzac Day march is being investigated by police to see if he was taking photos while driving.

A photograph of Russell Hughes, 64, holding what appears to be a camera, was sent to ABC radio by a listener.

The ABC then sent the photograph to Victoria Police, who said they were investigating "whether that had any contribution to the accident".

Eight Sri Lankan war veterans were injured when the 1942 Chevrolet Blitz hit the marchers from behind, opposite the Arts Centre on St Kilda Road.

The RSL has said that it will review the use of heavy duty military vehicles at the march and will also consider widening the gap between trucks and marchers.

Mr Hughes said after the accident that he doubted whether he would drive in the Anzac Day parade again.

He was overcome with relief when he heard all the men were likely to recover.

"I thought I'd killed two or three at the time, I was just totally distraught," he said at the time.

"I am devastated … and very sorry.

"I wish them all the best of luck and hope they all come good. Particularly for someone like myself, who's got this interest and respect for what they did, it's just a nightmare."

Victoria RSL president Major General David McLachlan told ABC radio that ‘‘the driver of the vehicle will be devastated that that has come to light’’.

He said he had seen the photograph and the Anzac Day Commemoration Council would discuss it at its next meeting.

‘‘We should await the outcome of the police investigation before we make further comment, but it’s not a good look,’’ he said.

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THE devastated driver of a vintage army truck that ploughed into a group of veterans at Melbourne's Anzac Day march is being investigated by police to see if he was taking photos while driving.
THE devastated driver of a vintage army truck that ploughed into a group of veterans at Melbourne's Anzac Day march is being investigated by police to see if he was taking photos while driving.

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