Johnny Gray: 1956 Chevrolet driver revealed as victim in Mitchell Freeway crash involving Ford Ranger

The heartbroken wife of a man who died when his classic car crashed into oncoming traffic on the Mitchell Freeway has paid tribute to her husband, saying he had the “biggest heart and touched everyone he met”. Johnny Gray, 60, died on Wednesday night when his pink 1956 Chevrolet smashed head-on into a Ford Ranger utility travelling north, in Nowergup, about 8.10pm. Investigators are looking into whether Mr Gray went the wrong way down a freeway off-ramp at Butler Boulevard. The crumpled wreck of his car was virtually unrecognisable, except for its distinctive pink colour. Mr Gray died at the scene while the 35-year-old man driving the Ford was taken to Royal Perth Hospital with minor injuries. The car enthusiast had been at a community event — Burger and Steel Bumpers— in Alkimos before the crash. His wife, Moana, penned a heartbreaking tribute on Thursday as part of an online fundraiser to support her grieving family. “Johnny was a devoted husband who always put others before himself,” she said in a GoFundMe fundraiser. “He had the biggest heart and touched everyone he met — always ready with his signature bear hug or a phone call if you needed him. “He loved old school cars, shopping online, telling inspiring stories, and spending time with his true best friends — his dogs and cats, often with a beer in hand in the backyard. “Johnny wasn’t just a loving husband, but also a proud dad, stepdad, and granddad. “He gave back to his community, supporting charities and small businesses like Hey Perth and Simon Says. His presence lit up every room, and life will never be the same without him.” Dave Johnson, a Burger and Steel Bumpers volunteer, said Mr Gray had been excited to show off his car at the Alkimos event. “He was a big, cuddly teddy bear — when you greet Johnny, it’s not just a handshake, you get a big hug from this man,” Mr Johnson said. “Last night, (the event) had a 6pm kickoff — he got there at 4.10pm. “ His friend of several years, Peter, who didn’t wish to have his surname used, said Mr Gray wanted to give “everyone a cuddle”. “Last night, he spoke to me, and he said, I finally renovated my house, so I’m going to get you to come over,” he said. “He said, ‘I haven’t wanted to come over at this stage because the house was a mess, but now it’s done’. “He was in a very happy mood.” Both Peter and David said they believe Mr Gray drove into oncoming traffic after becoming confused by a sign. Another attendee at the car meet was involved in an accident earlier that night after making the same turn towards oncoming traffic, they said. In the wake of the crash, police urged all motorists to “take care on the road”. “Drive safely and keep in mind the wellbeing of yourself and others,” a spokesman said. Investigators urge anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.