Coronavirus testing prevented an Armstrong Creek man, accused of hitting and killing a cyclist, from appearing in court on Tuesday.
Chris Hyslop, 35, was due to face Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on charges of culpable driving, dangerous driving causing death, failing to stop and failing to render assistance.
Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives charged Mr Hyslop and remanded him in custody on Monday over a fatal crash that killed 60-year-old Debbie Locco.
The former principal and mother-of-three had been cycling on Beach Road about 5.25pm when a red Holden Commodore hit her, police alleged.
Major Collision Investigation Unit Detective Sergeant Mark Amos alleged the driver fled the scene after hitting Ms Locco and dumped the car a short time later near Waller Court, Cheltenham.
Three passengers were left in the car, including a one-year-old infant.
But Mr Hyslop was unable to appear as he was in isolation in custody due to a close relative waiting on a coronavirus test result, the court heard.
He did not apply for bail and was remanded in custody to front court for a committal mention on September 29.
The Department of Education wrote to staff, students and parents of South Oakleigh College on Monday, describing Ms Locco as a “much loved and admired colleague”.
She had been a “passionate educator”, the department said.
Ms Locco won the Australian Council for Educational Leaders Fellowship last year and was remembered by the department for “her infectious enthusiasm, both for life and work”.
Current South Oakleigh College principal Helen Koziaris said the school community was saddened and grieving the “tragic death” of Ms Locco.
“She was not only a professional colleague but a friend to all who shaped and drove educational change and supported staff, students and parents in their day-to-day lives,” Ms Koziaris said.
“Our deepest condolences go to Debbie’s family at this time. Our thoughts, love and strength are with them, she will be greatly missed, but always remembered.”
