Tragic Driveway Death in Reservoir: Grandmother Allegedly Run Down by Neighbour in Heated Altercation

In a shocking act of alleged violence that has rocked the quiet Melbourne suburb of Reservoir, 53-year-old grandmother and mother of three Melonie McKay was fatally struck by a car in her own driveway during a confrontation with her neighbour. The incident unfolded on Seston Street around 7:40pm on Friday, February 20, 2026, leaving her family devastated and the community in disbelief.

Police allege that 44-year-old local resident Luke Rainey deliberately accelerated his vehicle toward Ms McKay after an argument escalated dramatically. Witnesses reported hearing intense screaming and seeing a shopping trolley thrown at the car moments before the fatal impact. Ms McKay was hit just metres from her front door and died at the scene despite efforts by paramedics to revive her.

smh.com.au

Man charged with murder after woman struck by car in Reservoir

Melonie McKay, remembered by loved ones as a devoted mother and grandmother who endured hardships but always put family first.

Her son, Trent Ottrey, spoke to 7NEWS about the family’s overwhelming grief. “I don’t know what to do. I don’t know how to feel. I had a cry with my younger sister,” he said. Ottrey described his mother as someone who “grew up hard,” facing challenges that shaped a tough but loving household. “She was good to the grandkids,” he added, highlighting her dedication despite life’s difficulties.

Neighbours recounted a rapid escalation from a verbal dispute in the shared driveway to chaos. One resident told media outlets the situation “erupted” into violence after the trolley incident, with shouting turning deadly in seconds.

news.com.au

Man charged with murder after woman hit by car dies in Melbourne’s north | news.com.au — Australia’s leading news site for latest headlines

Crime scene tape cordons off the driveway on Seston Street, Reservoir, where emergency services responded to the fatal incident late Friday night.

Homicide Squad detectives arrested Rainey at the scene. He was charged with one count of murder and appeared briefly in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Saturday. Rainey informed the court he has two children for whom he holds full custody. He remains in custody as the investigation continues.

heraldsun.com.au

Reservoir death: Man charged with murder after mowing down woman on Seston St | Herald Sun

Police vehicles and forensics teams at the Reservoir address, where the alleged deliberate act occurred in a residential driveway.

Ms McKay was remembered in tributes as “kind-hearted and compassionate,” a woman who overcame personal struggles to be a pillar for her family. Her death has sparked widespread outrage and calls for reflection on neighbourhood disputes turning violent. Family members learned of the tragedy through social media in some cases, compounding the shock.

thechronicle.com.au

Reservoir death: Man charged with murder after mowing down woman on Seston St | The Chronicle

The modest residential block on Seston Street, now the site of a tragic neighbourhood confrontation that ended in alleged murder.

The incident highlights the dangers of escalating tensions in shared spaces like driveways. Police have urged anyone with information to come forward, as forensic examinations of the vehicle and scene continue.

7news.com.au

Man charged with murder after woman killed in Reservoir

Emergency lights illuminate the night as police secure the area following the fatal collision in Melbourne’s north.

This heartbreaking case serves as a stark reminder of how quickly arguments can spiral into irreversible tragedy. Ms McKay’s family, including grandchildren who adored her, now faces life without her presence. Community support has poured in, with many expressing solidarity and sorrow for the loss of a beloved local figure.

As the legal process begins, the focus remains on justice for Melonie McKay and healing for those left behind.