Publicly broadcast video of a ute police say hit and killed a father of eight more than four years ago has led to an arrest after members of the public provided vital information.
Matthew Neary, 37, was found lying in the northbound lanes of Mandurah Road in Golden Bay early on Sunday, November 22, 2020, and declared dead at the scene.
Mr Neary, whose partner was pregnant with his ninth child, was reportedly walking home from a party when the alleged hit-and-run occurred.
WA Police on Tuesday appealed for information on the unsolved case and released video of a white Nissan Navara ute seen driving in the area at the time.
The video, showing distinguishable features of the ute, was broadcast by media outlets, prompting members of the community to contact police.
As a result of information received, police on Wednesday arrested a 22-year-old man in Perth.
The man, who was 17 at the time of the alleged hit-and-run, has been charged with failing to stop and provide assistance after an incident causing death and failing to report an incident occasioning death.
He was to appear before the Perth Children's Court on Thursday.
Detective Senior Sergeant Hugh Le Tessier, in charge of major crash investigations, told reporters police were unable to identify the ute's registration.
But he said CCTV enhancements identified distinguishable features including a black decal on the lower part of the passenger side doors, a faded rear tail light and an aftermarket bull bar.
Det-Sen Sgt Le Tessier thanked the community for their assistance.
"The support we received from the community as a result of the media broadcasts was greatly appreciated and played a pivotal role in bringing this matter to a close," he said.
