The charge against the truck driver accused of dangerous driving causing the death of 18-year-old Michael Keating could be upgraded, a court has heard.
Mathew Gray, 41, was granted bail in the Bendigo Magistrates' Court on Tuesday after being assessed as suitable for the court integrated services program, which aims to reduce the chances of offending through access to support services.
Major Collision Investigation Unit Detective Senior Constable Ben Oliver told the court the crash reconstruction process had begun in relation to the June 7 collision.
Depending on the outcome of the investigation, DSC Oliver said, elevating Mr Gray's charge of dangerous driving causing death to culpable driving causing death remained a possibility.
On June 7, Mr Gray was driving a recycling truck at the intersection of Woodward Road and Hattam Street in Golden Square when he was involved in a collision with Mr Keating, who was riding a bicycle.
Mr Keating died at the scene.
When the bail application was first brought before the court two weeks ago, DSC Oliver said preliminary tests results indicated there was a "reportable" level of methamphetamine in Mr Gray's blood.
It was alleged Mr Gray told police in an interview that he had smoked methamphetamine the night before the crash. He also allegedly told police he looked left and right at the intersection, but did not see Mr Keating.
At the first bail application hearing, magistrate John Bentley declined to make a decision on bail until Mr Gray had been assessed for the court integrated services program.
On Tuesday the court heard he was found suitable.
His mother gave evidence that he would live with her and his step-father while on bail, she would ensure he did not drive and she would take him to his appointments.
She also told Mr Bentley she would contact police if he breached his bail conditions.
Defence lawyer Markorius Habib said Mr Gray should be granted bail for reasons including the likelihood of delay in the proceedings and because it was his client's first time in custody.
Mr Bentley granted bail subject to conditions that included a curfew between 9pm and 7am, a ban from driving, remaining abstinent from drug use, undertaking weekly drug screens, and complying with all requirements of the court integrated services program.
Mr Gray will return to court next month.
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Natalie Croxon
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
