The family of 12-year-old Mia Rossiter, who was killed in a devastating road crash near Geelong, has been shown shocking footage of driver Jordan Kenyon engaging in dangerous behaviour behind the wheel before the fatal collision.
The footage was presented during a pre-sentence hearing at the County Court of Victoria, where details of Kenyon’s driving history and actions before the crash were examined. Kenyon pleaded guilty to serious offences including culpable driving causing death after the January 2024 crash that claimed Mia’s life.
The court heard that videos recorded by Kenyon in the weeks before the crash showed him driving recklessly, including dangerous behaviour while behind the wheel. The footage became a key part of the prosecution’s argument that his actions were not an isolated mistake but part of a pattern of extreme risk-taking behaviour.
The fatal crash occurred on 3 January 2024 on the Hamilton Highway at Stonehaven, near Geelong in Victoria. Kenyon was driving a vehicle when he collided with a car carrying the Rossiter family. Mia died as a result of the crash, while her parents and younger sister suffered serious injuries.
The court heard Kenyon was affected by drugs at the time of the crash and was travelling at a dangerous speed. Judge Michael Tinney described the behaviour as similar to playing “Russian roulette” with other people’s lives, highlighting the extreme danger created by Kenyon’s decisions.
Evidence presented during the hearing included footage showing Kenyon engaging in reckless actions before the collision. The videos showed behaviour including unsafe driving practices, alcohol consumption while driving and comments that demonstrated a disregard for the safety of other road users.
Mia Rossiter’s family delivered emotional statements to the court, describing the devastating impact of losing a young daughter and sister. They spoke about Mia’s personality, her kindness and the future she would never have the opportunity to experience.
The court also heard that Kenyon had a significant history of driving offences and was subject to legal restrictions before the fatal crash. Prosecutors argued that his previous behaviour showed repeated disregard for road safety.
Kenyon’s defence acknowledged the seriousness of his actions, with his lawyer accepting that previous punishments and convictions had not stopped him from continuing dangerous behaviour.
The case has renewed public discussion about repeat dangerous driving offenders, drug-affected driving and whether stronger measures are needed to prevent similar tragedies. Road safety advocates say the incident highlights the devastating consequences that can occur when drivers ignore basic safety responsibilities.
Kenyon remains in custody and is scheduled to be sentenced after the court considers the evidence, victim impact statements and his criminal history. The sentencing outcome will determine the penalty for offences including culpable driving causing death, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years imprisonment in Victoria.
The Rossiter family continues to remember Mia and seek justice following the crash. The case remains a powerful reminder of the consequences of dangerous driving and the importance of responsible behaviour on Australian roads.
