The grandmother of Matildas captain Sam Kerr, 89-year-old Coral Kerr, is fighting for her life after being struck by a car just meters from her home in Palmyra, Perth. The incident occurred around 10:45 AM on Friday when Coral was getting off the bus near the intersection of Marmion and Justinian Streets.
Witnesses reported seeing the driver of the white Great Wall ute attempt to overtake the bus before mounting the curb and hitting Coral, who lay on the grassy area next to the footpath following the collision. Eyewitness Mary Ivey, who rushed to help Coral, noted, "She really wasn't responding too much, she was very sweaty and clammy... I think she was in shock obviously."
Another neighbor, Noeline Mudge, also expressed frustration, stating, "People just don't think anymore, they just want to get where they wanna get," highlighting the growing concern over traffic safety in the area. Indeed, locals indicated this incident is part of a troubling trend, with multiple crashes reported nearby over recent months.
After the incident, Coral was quickly transported to Royal Perth Hospital for treatment of serious injuries. A hospital spokesman later confirmed she had improved slightly and was listed as serious but stable. Meanwhile, the 63-year-old driver of the ute is cooperating with police investigations.
Roger Kerr, Sam's father, was reportedly at the wedding of one of Sam's Matildas teammates when the crash occurred. He quickly arranged to fly back home to be with his mother during this distressing time. Roger's connection to the incident has drawn additional attention to the Kerr family's devotion and support for one another.
Coral and her husband moved from India to Australia more than 50 years ago. Over the years, she has been immensely proud of her granddaughter Sam's meteoric rise to fame within the world of women's football. Reflecting on Sam's success, she once said, "It’s hard to describe the feeling... It's so much pride and yet she’s just my granddaughter," showcasing the personal connection Coral holds to Sam's achievements.
The local community has reacted strongly to the incident, with neighbors expressing their concern for Coral and hope for her recovery. Many have brought flowers and cards to her home, and are organizing to provide support for the family as they navigate this difficult process.
Local officials are under pressure to improve safety measures around the bus stop where the incident occurred, emphasizing the need for action amid concerns about traffic behavior and pedestrian safety. The area has seen previous incidents, and discussions have begun among community leaders to install additional signage or barriers to prevent such occurrences.
With family and friends holding their breath for Coral's recovery, the Kerr family is coming together during this challenging time. The bonds of support and love within their close-knit family are ever-present, and as they confront this crisis, the strength of their collective hope shines bright.
Finally, as the family awaits updates on Coral’s condition, the community remains engaged, rallying support for the beloved matriarch of the Kerr family. The collective outcry for improved safety measures speaks volumes, and Coral’s situation serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance on the roads.
