Police are appealing for any witnesses to a horror double fatality and car fire that killed two drivers at Mannerim late Tuesday night.
A passer-by came across the two vehicles on fire in a paddock just off Portarlington-Queenscliff Rd soon after 10.30pm, police said.
Both drivers died at the scene.
The fire-damaged vehicles were reported to be a Ford Falcon and Mitsubishi Pajero.
Assistant Commissioner Stephen Leane said investigating officers believed that one vehicle had driven through the intersection without stopping.
“It was a catastrophic event,” Asst Comm Leane said.
“What we do know is that we had one vehicle that came into the intersection at speed and didn’t appear to obey any signal or give way opportunity that it had.“
This week six lives were lost on Victorian roads, bringing the toll since the start of January to 34, which is 12 more deaths since the same time last year.
Waurn Ponds Senior Sergeant Gary Wilson told the Indy yesterday that officers had spoken to people in the area at the time of the accident but investigators still needed further information.
“We’re keen to speak with anyone who witnessed this collision or are aware of the events leading up to it,“ Sen Sgt Wilson said.
“If anyone can help with dash-cam footage or other information that would be incredible.“
Sen Sgt Wilson said two police units attended the scene on the night before other emergency services arrived to assist in the morning.
“Forensics specialists have now concluded their work at the scene. However, there’s more follow-up to do,“ he said.
Police were yet to formally identify the drivers involved in the accident or release their names when the Indy reached deadline on Thursday afternoon.
Police said anyone with information could phone contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at crimestoppersvic.com.au.
