Former Nationals candidate Benjamin Simpkins charged over death of Katanning teacher Luke Russell
A former National Party political candidate has been charged in connection with a fatal crash that killed a high school teacher last week.
Benjamin Simpkins, 26, is accused of shooting 49-year-old Luke Russell and leaving him for dead.
WATCH VIDEO ABOVE: Former National candidate charged in teacher’s death
Russell was found unresponsive at Marri Dr in Katanning. perthJust after 5:30 a.m. on Wednesday, May 13.
The teacher was just meters away from the house when he suffered horrific injuries.
First aid was given but he could not be saved.
Police allege Simpkins did not stop to help and instead drove 40 miles to work on a normal day.
Police allege an employee texted Simpkins that night and said: “Did you see the murder scene on your way to work this morning?”
He allegedly replied, “No, no.”
Perth Judges Court On Wednesday, a witness was said to have seen him cleaning his car the next day.
He also allegedly researched online what his obligations were after an accident before deleting the call.
Police arrested the former Nationals WA political candidate, who is running for a legislative council seat in the 2025 state election, at his home in Katanning.
Police also seized the father’s mobile phone and Toyota Hilux; DNA found in his car allegedly matched that of the victim.
Simpkins faces three charges, including failure to stop after an incident resulting in death, failure to report an incident resulting in death and lack of authority to drive.
Simpkins’ bail application was refused and he is expected to appear in court again in June.
