CCTV footage of Bangalow hit-and-run released

POLICE have released CCTV footage of a black SUV seen driving through Bangalow shortly after a fatal hit-and-run last month.

The vehicle — believed to be a 2008–2012 Toyota LandCruiser 200 Series — was captured on camera outside the Bangalow General Store, heading north along Granuaille Road shortly after the incident occurred.

The hit-and-run took place around 3.30am on Sunday July 6 outside the Bangalow Community Children’s Centre on Raftons Road. Investigators believe the SUV may have sustained front-end damage and are urging the driver or any passengers to come forward.

So far, police have not located any vehicles matching the description that have been recently repaired.

Emergency services responded swiftly, with NSW Ambulance paramedics treating the victim at the scene. Sadly, 64-year-old Paul Campton — a beloved Bangalow local — died at the scene.

Tweed-Byron Police District crime manager Detective Inspector Matt Zimmer said police had delayed releasing the footage to confirm the vehicle’s make and model after consulting with Toyota experts.

“Because the CCTV camera did not capture the image of the number plate it’s obviously taken us some time to correctly identify the make and model of this vehicle,” he said.

“It was very difficult to determine from that CCTV footage.

“We are conducting further enquiries with owners of this motor vehicle throughout NSW and south-east Queensland.”

 

 

Detective Inspector Zimmer said police were also continuing to canvas the surrounding area this week.

“We’re still trying to establish if that vehicle was visiting someone in the street, dropping someone off or just passing through,” he said.

Known affectionately as ‘Campo’, Mr Campton was a long-time member of the Bangalow Rebels Rugby Club and a former Commonwealth Bank employee. He is survived by his wife and three daughters, who delivered heartfelt tributes at his funeral at St Kevin’s Catholic Church earlier this month.

Detective Inspector Zimmer made a direct appeal to those involved in the incident.

“There’s no doubt in my mind that the driver knew that they had struck a person,” he said. “Our information is that the person failed to stop and render assistance.

“Consider the grief and devastation that this has caused the family.

“Do the right thing – come forward and give this family some closure and give the tight-knit Bangalow community some answers.”

Police continue to appeal for information. Anyone who saw the vehicle — particularly one matching the description with possible front-end damage — or has relevant dashcam footage is urged to contact Byron Bay Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.