An Australian grandfather has died and his wife is in a critical condition following a car crash in Bali on Saturday night. Andy and Julianne Stoakes were passengers in a Toyota Rush driven by an Indonesian friend when the vehicle lost control and collided with a concrete barrier on the Bali Mandara Toll Road.
The CCTV footage shows the car veering off course as it headed toward Denpasar from Jimbaran. Mr. Stoakes was transported to BIMC Hospital but succumbed to his injuries. Mrs. Stoakes sustained life-threatening injuries and underwent emergency treatment before being medically evacuated to Perth, Australia.
Julianne Stoakes, who has since been discharged from the hospital, suffered broken ribs, sternum, and shoulder, along with fractures in her feet and back. She also experienced bleeding in her lungs and extensive bruising. A patient care assistant at Armadale Hospital, she is currently unable to work due to the severity of her injuries.
Mrs. Stoakes described her husband of 44 years as a "great father and grandfather" in a tribute to Seven News. She noted his skills as a tradesman, having taught their sons plumbing and other construction work, leaving a legacy of inspiration.
The couple and the driver were reportedly wearing seatbelts at the time of the incident. The driver remains in the hospital in critical condition.
A friend of the couple, Bree Pember, has launched a GoFundMe campaign to support Mrs. Stoakes financially as she recovers and grieves. The campaign highlights that while travel insurance covered immediate emergency expenses, the path ahead involves months of recovery, rehabilitation, ongoing medical needs, and funeral costs, compounded by the loss of Mr. Stoakes.
Bali held many cherished memories for the couple, making the tragedy particularly difficult for those who know them.
