The man accused of being behind the wheel of a truck that fatally ploughed into four police on a Melbourne freeway has made a brief court appearance, as officers raid homes connected to his employer.
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Mohinder Singh, 47, is charged with culpable driving causing the deaths of Leading Senior Constable Lynnette Taylor, Senior Constable Kevin King and constables Glen Humphris and Josh Prestney as they were impounding a Porsche on the Eastern Freeway at Kew on Wednesday.
In Melbourne Magistrates Court on Monday, Singh did not apply for bail. Lawyer Steven Pica said Singh had anxiety and depression and may have had an undiagnosed psychiatric issue his whole life.
Victoria Police on Monday revealed the major collision investigation unit had raided two homes.
"This morning our MCIU and our heavy vehicle unit have executed two search warrants at addresses in Croydon and Frankston associated with the trucking company," Assistant Commissioner Libby Murphy said.
Heavy vehicle laws came into effect in 2014 to consider the chain of responsibility for vehicles more than 4.5 tonnes, to ensure the vehicles are safe and drivers stick to responsible hours, she said.
Trucking company Connect Logistics, released a short statement following the raids and court appearance.
"Our prayers and deepest condolences go out to their families, the Victoria Police and everyone dealing with this horrific loss," the statement reads.
"As the issue is still under investigation it has not been appropriate for us to comment any further. We remain heartbroken by this tragedy."
Police allege Porsche driver Richard Pusey, 41, was clocked doing 149km/h while under the influence of methylamphetamine and cannabis, prompting police to impound his car.
The officers were hit while they were dealing with Pusey who then allegedly filmed the crash site and verbally abused Sen Const Taylor before running away.
Pusey, of Fitzroy, was charged on Friday with nine offences including driving at a dangerous speed, reckless conduct endangering life, failing to render assistance and drug possession.
He also did not apply for bail and remains in custody until his next court date in July.
A woman who said she was Pusey's mother told Melbourne radio 3AW his family was ashamed and that he was estranged from them.
"We want to disassociate ourselves with the tragedy that occurred on Wednesday night," she said.
"We were incredibly shocked and deeply ashamed by the (alleged) events that unfolded surrounding the accident and thereafter.
"Our family have been under public scrutiny since that time in a quest to find some explanation as to Richard's (alleged) actions in this catastrophic event.
"This is an insight we are unable to provide."
Witnesses who have dashcam footage of the prime mover on April 22 on the Eastern Freeway are again urged to speak to police.
The Queensland registered truck's plate is XV85IE and the trailer's registration is 84IQWK.
Australian Associated Press
