A woman faces charges following a tragic incident in Sydney’s north-west, where a volunteer firefighter lost his life in an alleged hit-and-run.

The unfortunate event unfolded on Saturday afternoon, drawing emergency services to Richmond Road in Marsden Park. Upon arrival, they discovered the aftermath of a collision between a motorbike and a Ford ute.

Authorities reported that the impact caused both vehicles to burst into flames. Despite the valiant efforts of passing motorists who stopped to help, motorcyclist James Swainston, aged 31, succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

In a shocking turn of events, the driver of the ute was not present when police arrived at the location. It is alleged that the driver fled before law enforcement could reach the site.

James Swainston, who dedicated his time as a volunteer with the Rural Fire Service, is fondly remembered by his family as a supportive and caring individual. His sudden passing has left a significant emotional impact on both his loved ones and the community he served.

Swainston, a volunteer in the Rural Fire Service, has been remembered as supportive and caring by his family.

“Those who knew James will know that James cared and wanted to help people, be it supporting his family, being a protective big brother, son or boyfriend, helping a mate, or as a volunteer in the RFS,” a social media tribute read.

“We loved James so much, and we are so very proud of the caring and loving son, brother, boyfriend, cousin, nephew, grandchild and friend that he was.”

Police established a crime scene and began an investigation, which led to an arrest being made yesterday.

A 37-year-old woman was arrested at a Bunnings store in Penrith and was taken to Penrith Police Station.

Police will allege she was driving with a disqualified licence.

She was charged with dangerous driving occasioning death, driving in a dangerous manner, failing to stop and assist after a vehicle impact causing death, and driving a motor vehicle during a disqualification period.

The woman from Londonderry was refused bail and will appear before Penrith Local Court today.