The crash involving George Plassaras last month has taken a new turn with rumours swirling that the driver who caused it is related to a high-ranking official in China.
Lanlan Yang, the 23-year-old driver, was allegedly drunk when she crashed her $1 million Rolls-Royce into Plassaras‘s Mercedes early in the morning on 26 July.
The crash caused significant injury to the Greek Australian, breaking his spine, ribs, both hips and both femurs.
Yang was uninjured and returned a positive result during a roadside breath test, police allege.
Roughly 100 Chinese Australians turned out at the John Madison Tower at Sydney’s Downing Centre on Friday morning to try catch a glimpse of the 23-year-old.
Yang’s lawyer, Yu, said she was not in a position to enter a plea because “the police have indicated there will be additional charges”.
The case was adjourned to 26 September with Yang’s bail at her penthouse apartment in Sydney’s east to continue.
The Chinese Australian community seem to be following the case with interest, with a person outside the court room telling news.com.au their belief she comes from a family of high standing (particularly suggesting political figures).
“Lots of Chinese leaders have their wealth stored in foreign countries,” Chin Jin said.
“Her family might be in China’s politburo or standing committee, but at this point it’s still hearsay.”
Another member present, Tony Zhou, affirmed that belief, saying:
“We believe her family background is at least politburo member, maybe standing committee member – this is why we all focus on the news.”
He added: “Some of us are supporting the democratic movement in China and we want to destroy communism, so this case is important to us.”
Zhou also stated there is a rumour Yang’s father was involved with an Australian iron ore mine.
Yang has been charged with causing bodily harm by misconduct, in charge of motor vehicle and refuse or fail to submit to breath analysis.
Her bail conditions include that she cannot drive a car or leave her penthouse between the hours of 8pm to 6am.
If found guilty, Yang may be ordered to pay Plassaras’ medical and vehicle costs.
Source: news.com.au
