Death is a warning

Toowoomba man killed in high-speed crash an example

THE frustrated mother of a Toowoomba teen accused of a string of burglaries and car thefts has told the lad he will end up dead like a man killed in a stolen car crash near Brisbane.

The woman, who was supporting the boy in court, was referring to John Michael Weatherall, known as Johnboy, who was killed in the alleged stolen car crash at Bald Hills.

From the court gallery, the mum told the boy that “Johnboy is dead” and “stealing cars is no joke”.

Weatherall, a front seat passenger, died on impact while Toowoomba woman Shantel Lucas, who was in the back seat, suffered serious injuries.

She remains in hospital. She has not been charged. The alleged driver of the car, Jordan Cubby, is accused of spitting blood at police while fleeing the scene.

Police yesterday said charges were not expected to be filed against the 28-year-old until next week “due to the extent of his injuries and ongoing medical treatment”.

Cubby remains in hospital under police guard.

The horrific crash also claimed the life of Shahid Islam, a married father-of-one who had been driving home when the alleged stolen Mitsubishi 4WD crashed into his vehicle head-on.

The Mitsubishi had allegedly been driving on the wrong side of Gympie Arterial Rd.

The death of Mr Islam, an innocent bystander whose life was cruelly cut short, sent shockwaves across the state for its senselessness.

Investigations into the crash are continuing, and are being overseen by the Ethical Standards Command.

tara.miko@thechronicle.com.au