Dual National Granted Bail and Permission for Overseas Travel in Darwin Hit-and-Run Case
A 61-year-old dual Thai-Australian national, Pairat Junsomran, has been granted bail by the Darwin Local Court following a fatal hit-and-run incident. The court also permitted him to travel to Thailand as previously arranged.
Incident Details
On December 27, a 27-year-old Indigenous woman was struck by a vehicle on Bagot Road in Darwin. She died at the scene. Seven days later, Mr. Junsomran was arrested and charged with one count of hit-run causing death after an investigation by police.
Bail Hearing
During the Darwin Local Court hearing on Monday, Mr. Junsomran's lawyer, Samuel Naylor, stated that his client has no prior criminal record and maintains strong ties to the Darwin community, including a family home. Mr. Naylor also highlighted Mr. Junsomran's cooperation with police during the investigation, which included voluntarily submitting his vehicle for forensic testing. The charge carries a maximum penalty of a 10-year prison sentence.
Travel Permission and Conditions
The court was informed of Mr. Junsomran's pre-arranged trip to Thailand, scheduled to commence on January 6. Prosecution lawyer Bryce Luck did not oppose the bail application or the request for overseas travel, indicating that Mr. Junsomran's community ties suggested he did not pose a flight risk.
Judge John Bortoli granted bail with specific conditions. Mr. Junsomran is required to surrender his passport upon his return to Australia on February 7 and must remain within the Northern Territory following his return.
Next Steps
Mr. Junsomran was released from custody, and his case has been adjourned until March 4.