Luton Murray abandons second bail bid in Ballarat hit-run case
Luton Murray applied for bail a second time over an alleged fatal hit-run. The incident killed Ballarat man Shane Avery in August.
Luton Murray, 38, faced Ballarat Magistrates' Court on Monday. Murray was seeking bail for a second time over Shane Avery's death.
Murray faces several charges. The charges include culpable driving causing death, dangerous driving causing death, driving while disqualified, failing to stop and failing to render assistance.
Murray's defence barrister told the court the prosecution case was very weak. According to police, on August 16, Murray was chasing Avery's son Jesse in a green Ford Fiesta.
Jesse called his father for help. Avery positioned himself on Butt Street armed with a chain.
As the car approached at about 80 kilometres per hour, Avery swung the chain at it. Police say Murray's car crossed into the opposite lane.
It struck Avery at speed. The impact threw him onto a grass verge about 47 metres away.
Murray was first denied bail. His history included defying court orders and driving offences.
- August 16, 2026
- Incident date
- Approximately 80 kilometres per hour
- Car speed
- About 47 metres onto grass verge
- Distance thrown
- Luton Murray, 38
- Accused
Why it mattersThe outcome will decide whether the accused stays in custody ahead of trial. The competing versions of evidence shape how the court understands the case.
AustraliaThe case reflects ongoing tensions in Ballarat over road violence and has drawn significant local attention to fatal hit-run prosecutions.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
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