Nanson man, 49, charged over fatal Wandina crash that killed 20-year-old Geraldton woman Abby Shiozaki

A Nanson man has been charged over a fatal crash in Wandina earlier this year that claimed the life of 20-year-old woman Abby Shiozaki. Major crash investigation section officers have charged the 49-year-old man with dangerous driving occasioning death, dangerous driving occasioning grievous bodily harm and driving while impaired by drugs. The charges come five months after a horror collision that occurred on Thursday, May 15 about 9.30pm at the intersection of Brand Highway and Endeavour Drive in Wandina. Police say a blue Holden Commodore and a white Toyota LandCruiser Prado collided. A local resident, who witnessed the aftermath of the crash and wanted to remain anonymous, said it appeared to be a T-bone collision between the two vehicles, with impact significant — the smaller vehicle was pushed roughly 50m and the Prado lost a wheel. Ms Shiozaki, a passenger in the Commodore, was rushed to Geraldton Regional Hospital where she later died from her injuries. A 16-year-old male passenger from the same vehicle was flown to Royal Perth Hospital in critical condition but has since been released. The Commodore’s 16-year-old driver and the 49-year-old driver of the Prado and his 47-year-old passenger were not injured. In the days following the crash, Ms Shiozaki’s family paid tribute to her, describing her as a “beautiful, caring soul — deeply loved and surrounded by wonderful friends and family.” “Our beautiful Abby was tragically taken from us. . . the heartbreak and impact of this loss are unimaginable,” the family wrote in an online tribute. Ms Shiozaki was remembered by her colleagues at Yamatji Southern Regional Corporation for her “kindness, radiant smile, and bubbly personality.” “She brought warmth and positivity to everyone around her. Abby approached every task with enthusiasm and a willingness to learn, always ready to lend a hand to her colleagues,” they said. The 49-year-old driver is due to appear before the Geraldton Magistrates Court on October 30.