Sadly a fifth person died following the incident that took place in the Melbourne CBD yesterday.

Victoria police were in pursuit of a vehicle in the CBD on Friday when the vehicle deliberately struck a number of pedestrians in the vicinity of Bourke and Queens Streets at approximately 1.30pm.

Police shot the man who was the sole occupant of the vehicle.

He was taken to hospital where he remains under police guard being treated for non-life threatening injuries and is yet to be interviewed.

Police understand the incident is linked to a stabbing that took place in Windsor early yesterday morning involving parties known to one another.

Following this incident, it is alleged the same man took a woman, who is known to him, hostage in his car. She managed to escape from the car on the Bolte Bridge.

Those who have sadly died include a 10-year-old girl, 22-year-old, Jess Mudie, Matthew Si, 33-year-old, another 32-year-old woman and a 3-month-old baby boy, who died in hospital this evening.

Ms Mudie’s family called the young woman the “most badass daughter and sister.”

“You will always be a part of us and are one of the strongest people we know,” the Mudie family’s statement read.

“We are constantly inspired by your love for everyone around you and the lengths you will go to for the people you love.

“We love your extravagant humour, the fact you always laughed at your own jokes… you are always up to do everything and are such a bright bubble of joy.”

Ms Mudie was remembered as “strong, beautiful, determined” and “always there for anyone”.

Mr Si’s wife, Melinda, called the 33-year-old a “devoted husband and loving father, brother and son”.

She said she had just finished having lunch in the city with her husband and had “just parted to go back to their respective offices” when the terror unfolded.

“Thank you everyone who helped Matt at the scene and did their best to save him,” Ms Si’s statement read.

Both families have requested privacy in their time of grieving.

Hospitals have treated 37 other people injured during the incident, 4 remain critical.

The Homicide Squad are investigating with the assistance of the Major Collision Investigation Unit.

Police encourage anyone who witnessed the event or who has information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

The Victorian Government is establishing a fund to help those families whose loved ones died in this tragedy.

The Victorian Government is donating an initial $100,000 to this community fund.

The fund will complement other services and support provided by the Victorian Government particularly for those who were injured or who witnessed the Bourke Street tragedy.

The attack in Bourke Street has far reaching impact on the community. If you, your family or people you know are having difficulty coping with the event and its aftermath support is available to help you deal with what you are feeling contact 1800 226 226.

How to donate
For Victorians wishing to donate to this fund you can do so by donating to:

Westpac Banking Corporation
Name of account: Bourke Street Fund
BSB: 033 009
Account Number: 668251

Please feel free to identify yourself through your transfer.

You can also call 1800 226 226 for advice on how to donate.

What the fund will be used for
The fund will be used to provide financial support to the immediate families of the deceased.

This might mean providing funding for people’s immediate and longer term care and support needs and could include funeral costs, psychological support and care needs depending on the family.

An Independent Panel will guide decisions about the fund. At this stage, any money donated to the fund will not be tax deductible.

Support available
Those affected by this tragedy can access support immediately by calling 1800 226 226.

Public vigil
A public vigil for the victims and those affected by the tragic events in Bourke Street Mall on Friday 20 January 2017 will take place at 5.00pm for 5.30pm, Monday 23 January at Fed Square.

This vigil is public and open to everyone and you are welcome to join the community at this vigil.

Our hearts go out to everyone involved. Such a senseless tragedy.

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