Family's heartbreak after son is killed in car crash - and their message for the 'good guy' driver under arrest

By KYLIE STEVENS, SENIOR BREAKING NEWS REPORTER, AUSTRALIA Published: 07:27, 11 August 2026 | Updated: 07:27, 11 August 2026 The shattered family of a man killed in a horror crash have issued a heartwarming message about the young driver in hospital under police guard. Matt Barrett, 38, was on his way home from an eight-ball pool competition with two mates when the white Volkswagen sedan he was travelling in veered off the road on a slight bend on Beach Road in Beaumaris, south-east Melbourne, shortly after midnight on Tuesday. The vehicle slammed into a tree before it slid down a ditch, ripping off parts of the car. Mr Barrett died at the scene while a second passenger, 45, was rushed to hospital with life-threatening injuries and remains in a critical condition, according to friends. The driver, 23, was arrested at the scene. He also remains in hospital under police guard. Mr Barrett's family has since shared a heartbreaking tribute. 'He lived more in his years than most people do in a lifetime,' the statement read. 'He was happiest, surrounded by the people he loved and made every one of us laugh every single day. Our lives will never be the same without him. Matt Barrett was on his way home from a pool competition when the white Volkswagen sedan he was travelling in veered off the road 'He lived more in his years than most people do in a lifetime,' Matt's family statement An investigation into the fatal crash in Beaumaris is now underway 'He was our son, our partner, our brother and our best mate, and we will miss him forever.' Mr Barrett's partner stressed that the young driver is 'a good guy' adding he would  be 'absolutely devastated' about losing his friend. His death sparked an outpouring of tributes. 'Rest in peace, Matty. You were a great bloke - full of love for your family and mates and ready to help out at the drop of a hat. Will be missed,' one woman wrote. Another added: 'You will be dearly missed by all, a special person taken way too soon!'  Mr Barrett's death takes Victoria's 2026 road toll to 146 lives lost.  Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives have launched an investigation into crash. Police and forensic officers spent much of Tuesday morning at the crash site examining the wreckage. Two other occupants in the car were also injured and rushed to hospital Shocked residents recalled hearing the smash and the driver's frantic cries for help as he tried to flag down a passing fire truck.  Anyone with information or footage of the car prior to the crash is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.