Jennifer Keen, 27, remembered as ‘kind soul’ after horror Westfield Knox crash in Melbourne

A young woman has tragically died after a Tesla crashed into a restaurant at Westfield Knox in Melbourne’s Wantirna South, leaving friends, colleagues and members of the local community devastated.

The victim, identified as 27-year-old Keen, was on her lunch break when the devastating crash occurred. She was reportedly only about 100 metres from her workplace at a nearby call centre when the vehicle suddenly ploughed into Martini+Co.

Emergency services rushed to the scene and desperately attempted to save Keen, but despite their efforts, she died at the scene. The sudden loss has left those who knew her struggling to comprehend how a normal lunch break could end in such tragedy.

According to tributes shared on social media, Keen was known as a bubbly, kind and warm-hearted young woman. She was also an avid anime fan and loved cosplay, interests that friends and colleagues remembered as an important part of her personality.

In the aftermath of the crash, tributes began appearing at the scene as people gathered to remember the 27-year-old. Flowers and messages have been left by friends, colleagues and members of the wider community, reflecting the impact her death has had on those around her.

One colleague described Keen as a “kind soul” and said she would be sorely missed. She was remembered as someone who brought warmth and positivity to the workplace, making her sudden death all the more difficult for those who worked alongside her.

The Tesla was being driven by a 51-year-old woman, who was travelling with a passenger at the time of the crash. Both were taken to hospital with injuries that were not considered life-threatening.

Police have stated that they do not believe the crash was an intentional act. Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident, including what may have caused the Tesla to leave its path and crash into the restaurant.

For Keen’s loved ones and colleagues, however, the investigation cannot undo the devastating loss of a young life. She had been going about an ordinary day, stepping away from work for lunch, when tragedy struck just a short distance from where she worked.

 

As the investigation continues, the community remains united in mourning for a young woman remembered for her kindness, cheerful personality and love of anime and cosplay.

Police are appealing to anyone who witnessed the crash or may have dashcam, CCTV or other footage that could assist investigators to come forward with information.