Driver of 4WD charged with Britney's murder

A 28-year-old man who crashed his 4WD off Mt Wellington has been charged with the murder of his 9-year-old passenger, Britney Abbott.

The Mt Wellington sales representative is also charged with the attempted murder of Britney's sister, 4-year-old Shirvaun Abbott.

The two girls were thrown from the vehicle when it crashed through a safety barrier and rolled more than 100m down the mountain on Sunday afternoon.

The man, who was also injured, has remained in hospital under police guard since the incident and is today expected to participate in a bedside court hearing.

The crash happened moments after police were called to a Mt Wellington address and told of fears for the girls' safety.

Unfortunately, the warning came too late.

Britney died on the mountain. Shirvaun was taken to Starship Hospital with serious injuries.

Britney, who was deaf, has this week been mourned by her family and the school she attended, the Kelston Deaf Education Centre.

Shirvaun, who also has a hearing impairment, attends the centre's preschool.

Principal David Foster described Britney as a happy child who tried hard, took pride in her work and was helpful with the younger children.

"She was always friendly with the other kids and she wanted to please the staff who worked with her ...

"We just loved having her as part of our school community."