Former Nationals Candidate Denied Bail Over Fatal Hit-and-Run

Benjamin Simpkins has been refused bail after appearing in a Perth court over the death of a man in the wheat farming town of Katanning last Wednesday.

The 26-year-old former Nationals candidate was charged with failing to assist after an incident causing death, among other charges.

Prosecutors say Mr Simpkins should not have been on the road as he was under several driving suspensions.

A former Nationals candidate accused of a fatal hit and run has appeared in court, with police alleging he was behind the wheel of a car that killed a 49-year-old male in Katanning last week.

Benjamin Thomas Simpkins was last on the Nationals' WA upper house ticket in the 2025 state election.

The 26-year-old appeared in Perth District Court on Wednesday charged with three serious driving offences.

DNA on vehicle

The police prosecutor told the court Mr Simpkins had multiple driving suspensions and "should not have been on the road" when he allegedly struck the 49-year-old victim on Marri Drive in the small Great Southern town soon after 5am last Wednesday.

The victim had suffered "catastrophic" head injuries, the court heard.

The prosecutor said the incident allegedly occurred when Mr Simpkins was heading to work in his Toyota Hilux.

The court heard how Mr Simpkins kept driving and did not tell police, but later tried to clean his vehicle.

The deceased man's DNA, however, was later found on the vehicle, the prosecutor added.

The prosecutor said he was a flight risk, with "extensive links in the eastern states" but defence lawyer Ben Jackson said his client had strong ties to Western Australia, as he had a full-time job, is studying law and volunteered at the local church.

Mr Jackson also said his client might have to wait up to two years for a trial.

Mr Simpkins is due to appear in court again next month.