QLD driver charged with the murder of Russell Klein in Millmerran on Christmas Day

A community is in mourning after a local rugby league legend died on Christmas Day when a car allegedly ploughed into his home.

Russell Klein, 55, was outside his house in Millmerran in Queensland‘s Toowoomba region when he was allegedly struck by a motorist who drove a car into the property at around 9:30pm. 

Paramedics were called to his home and attempted to treat the critically injured man but he tragically died at the scene.

Russell Klein (pictured), 55, died at his Millmerran home in Queensland’s Toowoomba region on Christmas day

Queensland Police claim the 30-year-old driver of the vehicle fled on foot after the collision. 

A man was found shortly after at a property nearby and is currently helping police with their inquiries.

Neighbours told The Chronicle that they heard a commotion between two people, a loud bang and a call for help. 

Neighbour Maureen Saunders claimed she heard a lot of ‘shouting and arguing’ and went outside after hearing the bang.

She ran over to Mr Klein’s home and found the father partially trapped under his house.

She tried to pull him out with the help of another local as a third resident called emergency services.

He was killed when a motorist allegedly ploughed their car into his home at around 9:30pm

Mr Klein was known for being heavily involved in local Rugby League. He played football for numerous clubs 

Ms Saunders told the publication: ‘He was such a lovely person, he would do anything for you and give you the shirt off his back.’

‘I used to get him a Mitre 10 gift card for Christmas each year to say thank you for doing my nature strip but I didn’t get to give it to him this year.’

Mr Klein was known for being heavily involved in local Rugby League throughout the Toowoomba region. 

He played for the Pittsworth Danes, Millmerran Rams and Inglewood Roosters during his league career.

He rejoined the Pittsworth Danes and played football alongside his sons in 2018

He rejoined the Pittsworth Danes and played football alongside his sons in 2018.

‘How many blokes get the chance to play footy with their two sons? It’s the best thing you can do,’ he told Queensland Rugby League.

Detectives and the Forensic Crash Unit are investigating the circumstances of Mr Klein’s death.