Aussi Sprint Star Daniel Batman Killed In Car Crash

Australian sprinter Daniel Batman died in a car accident near Darwin, Australia, according to the AAP. Police said that "the 31-year-old Canberra man died sometime after midnight when his car rolled" in Marrakai, Australia. Detectives said that "what caused the athlete's car to leave the road" is unclear, but they believe that "speed and alcohol could be factors in the crash" (AAP, 6/26). In Sydney, Jaqueline Williams reported that Batman's death "sent shockwaves through the Australian athletic community." Friend Paul Hallam, who assisted Batman during his attempted return to the sport last year said, "It's a big loss - people are very shocked by it, we all can't believe it." Former Australian sprinter Matt Shirvington said, "Daniel Batman was the best all-round sprinter Australia has ever seen. Rest in peace, mate." Sprinter Melissa Breen said, "A life taken too young, our thoughts are with your family and close friends at this very sad time" (SYDNEY MORNING HERALD, 6/26).