NSW Police Constable Mia Lay, 20, Killed in Redfern Crash on September 26

A 20-year-old NSW Police constable has died after the marked patrol car she was travelling in crashed into a tree in Redfern early Friday morning. Constable Mia Lay, who had served with the NSW Police Force for 16 months, was killed instantly when the vehicle hit the tree on Gibbons Street at about 1.30am while responding to reports of a vehicle theft in Glebe. The male constable driving the vehicle was taken to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in stable condition.

How the crash happened

The marked police car was travelling under lights and sirens on Gibbons Street in Redfern when it crashed into a tree at approximately 1.30am on Friday. The officers were responding to a reported vehicle theft at Glebe. The impact was severe, with the car split in half. NSW Police said the crash occurred just metres from Redfern Police Station. A critical incident has been declared and a crime scene established.

Who was Mia Lay

Constable Lay graduated from the police academy in May 2025, meaning she had been on the force for 16 months at the time of her death. NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon said she showed exceptional promise and was well-loved by colleagues in the South Sydney Police Area Command. Her former school, St Andrew’s Catholic Primary School Malabar, said her “kindness and bright spirit touched everyone who knew her.” Local MPs Matt Thistlethwaite and Michael Daley said her family were well-known and respected in the community.

Investigation and official response

The NSW Police watchdog, the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission, said it would monitor the force’s investigation to ensure public confidence. The commission cannot independently investigate until NSW Police completes its probe and any coronial or criminal proceedings conclude. Commissioner Lanyon said it was too early to provide details about the vehicle’s speed until the investigation is finished. Premier Chris Minns called it “a dark day, a very sad day” and said he was “devastated” for Lay’s family and the policing community.

Community and political tributes

Police Minister Yasmin Catley told reporters after meeting with Lay’s parents: “Today is a dark day, a very sad day. We’ve lost a beautiful, young, enthusiastic and wonderful police officer.” Opposition leader Kelly Sloane said she was “heartbroken” by the news. Commissioner Lanyon thanked Lay for putting her life on the line to keep her community safe and acknowledged that police understand the risks of the job. The NSW Police family is mourning the loss of one of its own, Lanyon said.

Final Thoughts

Constable Mia Lay’s death marks a tragedy for NSW Police and the broader community. At 20 and only 16 months into her career, she was remembered as a promising officer who served with distinction. The investigation into the crash circumstances continues.

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