Mother of NRL player to face trial for causing deadly car accident.

Family Vows to Seek Justice for Loved Ones Allegedly Killed in Car Crash Involving NRL Star's Mother

The family of three individuals who tragically lost their lives in a car crash caused by NRL star Payne Haas' mother is determined to see the case through to trial. After almost two years since the fatal collision, Uiatu 'Joan' Taufua, 48, has been ordered to stand trial for manslaughter. The victims' loved ones were overcome with emotion outside of the court as they heard the news.

Taufua is accused of driving into an oncoming vehicle on a narrow road in the Gold Coast hinterland on December 30, 2022. The collision resulted in the deaths of Susan Zimmer, 70, her partner Chris Fawcett, 79, and her daughter Steffanie, 35. Taufua, who is the mother of Brisbane Broncos forward Payne and Gold Coast Titans rising star Klese Haas, was the only survivor in the crash. She has been charged with multiple offences, including three counts of manslaughter.

Susan Zimmer's daughter, Claudine Snow, was present at the court hearing and was surrounded by loved ones for comfort. She expressed that it was a difficult moment for her family, but they are satisfied with the outcome of Taufua being ordered to stand trial. Snow stated that it was important for her to see the process through for her family and herself, despite the difficulty it may bring.

Taufua had been on parole at the time of the crash, having served nine months in prison for assaulting two security guards at The Star Casino. She was taken back into custody after the collision. During the court hearing, Taufua appeared behind glass and was guarded by two police officers. She smiled at her family and supporters as they entered the court.

After a 30-minute committal hearing, Taufua's barrister, Martin Longhurst, informed Magistrate Jane Bentley that his client admitted she had a case to answer. The matter has been referred to the Supreme Court in Brisbane, and Taufua will stand trial at a later date. When asked if she wanted to say anything or enter a plea, Taufua replied, "No, Your Honour."

During the committal hearing, Senior Constable Patrick McDonald, who has 20 years of experience in the forensic crash unit, testified about his speed analysis of the incident. Longhurst cross-examined him about the potential for error in determining the speed of Taufua's vehicle from CCTV footage. McDonald stated that while there is always a possibility of error, it has been accounted for in his analysis.

Taufua has been remanded in custody, and her remaining charges will be addressed at Southport Magistrates Court in June next year. The family of the victims remains determined to seek justice for their loved ones and will continue to support each other through this difficult time.

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