A teenage driver who fled the scene of a serious crash in Cairns, leaving his friend with life-threatening injuries, has faced court over the shocking incident.
Chaotic Crash in Mooroobool
The Cairns District Court heard that on the afternoon of October 17, 2023, a stolen Toyota Corolla was being driven dangerously through the suburb of Mooroobool. The vehicle, carrying the 17-year-old driver and his 16-year-old passenger, failed to navigate a bend on Progress Road.
The car mounted a kerb, smashed through a fence, and collided with a tree before coming to a stop. The impact was severe, causing significant damage to the vehicle and critically injuring the young passenger.
Driver's Flight and Passenger's Fight for Life
Instead of seeking help for his seriously hurt friend, the teen driver made the decision to run from the wreckage. He abandoned the scene, leaving the 16-year-old boy trapped and unconscious in the passenger seat.
Emergency services arrived and worked to free the injured teen. He was rushed to Cairns Hospital in a critical condition, suffering from what prosecutors described as near-fatal injuries. The court was told his recovery has been long and challenging.
Legal Proceedings and Consequences
The driver, who cannot be named due to his age, pleaded guilty to a string of charges including dangerous operation of a vehicle causing grievous bodily harm, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, and leaving the scene of a crash.
During sentencing submissions, Crown prosecutor Amanda Payne highlighted the gravity of the teen's actions. "He ran away," she told the court, emphasising the abandonment of his friend. Defence barrister Michael Dalton acknowledged his client's youth and early plea, stating the teen was "remorseful for the situation he has caused."
Judge Dean Morzone heard that the stolen car had been taken from a Manoora address earlier that same day. The case has been adjourned for a pre-sentence report, with the teen driver remanded in custody until his next court appearance.
The case has sent a stark warning to the community about the devastating consequences of dangerous driving and failing to take responsibility in the aftermath of a crash.
