A quiet rural community in northern New South Wales has been shattered by tragedy after an 11-year-old boy died when the utility vehicle he was driving illegally rolled over, leaving another young passenger injured.
Heartbreaking Scene in Rural NSW
Emergency services rushed to the remote property near Tabulam on Tuesday afternoon following reports of a serious vehicle accident. What they discovered was a scene of devastation that has left locals in shock.
The young boy, whose identity has not been officially released, was behind the wheel of the ute when it overturned on the private property. Tragically, he succumbed to his injuries at the scene despite paramedics' desperate efforts to save him.
Second Child Hospitalised
Another child, described as a mate of the deceased boy, was inside the vehicle during the rollover. The injured youngster was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being transported to hospital for further treatment.
"This is an absolutely devastating outcome for this family and this community," said a police spokesperson at the scene. "Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this terrible tragedy."
Police Investigation Underway
Richmond Police District officers have launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. While the accident occurred on private property, authorities are treating the matter with the utmost seriousness given the illegal nature of the driving and the tragic outcome.
Forensic officers remained at the property late into Tuesday evening, carefully examining the wreckage and surrounding area as part of their investigation into exactly how the tragedy unfolded.
Community in Mourning
The tight-knit rural community surrounding Tabulam, approximately 70 kilometres west of Casino, has been left reeling by the loss of such a young life. Neighbours and local residents have expressed their shock and grief over the incident.
"It's every parent's worst nightmare," one local resident told reporters. "This is a tragedy that will affect our entire community for a long time to come."
A report will be prepared for the coroner as the community comes to terms with the heartbreaking loss of a young life in circumstances that have left everyone asking difficult questions about rural safety and supervision.
