A 15-year-old boy who survived the 2021 Hillcrest jumping castle tragedy has died in an e-bike accident in Tasmania on New Year's Eve. Lucas Reid lost control of his bike and struck a pole on Don Heads Road near Devonport at approximately 7.30pm on Wednesday.
Tasmania Police confirmed the incident, stating that a nearby resident attempted to assist Reid, but he died at the scene. Inspector Nick Clark described the death as 'tragic' and noted that a helmet was found, though it has not been confirmed whether Reid was wearing it at the time of the crash.
Reid was one of three children injured in the Hillcrest primary school tragedy in 2021, where six children died after a 'mini tornado' dislodged a jumping castle. The operator of the castle was found not guilty of a workplace safety charge in June last year.
Devonport Mayor Alison Jarman offered condolences, calling the event 'horrendous' and 'tragic.' She urged the community to be 'kind and considerate and respectful of the situation.' Tasmanian MP Jane Howlett stated that the government's 'heart goes out to Lucas's family' and the Hillcrest community.
Reid was remembered for his resilience and optimism. GWS Giants captain Toby Greene paid tribute, describing him as a 'great young man who had overcome so much.' Giants CEO David Matthews noted Reid's 'resilience and energy,' adding that 'the adversity that he got dealt was a massive blow in itself, but he wasn't going to let anything stop him.'
Police are investigating the crash and will prepare a report for the coroner.
