March 17, 2025

Carter Capner Law monitors accidents involving cars, motorcycles, trucks, busses, cyclists and trams throughout Australia to spotlight safety issues of concern to our clients and to demonstrate those situations in which they may have a right to an insurance or compensation recovery. We act for drivers, riders, passengers, pedestrians. Call today on 1300 529 529 or click here to reach Carter Capner Law. Click on Client Showcase to view our history of road accident compensation claims.

Incident Overview
The death of Kyle Retallack , a 27-year-old concreter from Perth, has left the community heartbroken after he was one of three people killed in a single-vehicle crash in Lesley , southeast of Perth, on Sunday, March 16, 2025 . The tragic incident occurred at approximately 3:00 pm when a Nissan Patrol veered off Brookton Highway and collided with a tree.

Retallack, described by loved ones as a “sweet soul” and “genuinely caring person,” was traveling with a 26-year-old man and a 23-year-old woman, both of whom also lost their lives in the crash. The devastating event is part of a grim weekend on Western Australia’s roads, prompting an impassioned plea from authorities for safer driving practices.

Location and Time
The crash occurred on Brookton Highway in Lesley , a rural area southeast of Perth, at approximately 3:00 pm on Sunday, March 16, 2025 . The remote location and high-speed nature of the collision contributed to the severity of the crash.

Vehicles Involved

  • A **Nissan Patrol**, which veered off the road and collided with a tree.

The vehicle sustained catastrophic damage, leaving emergency services unable to save the occupants. Authorities are investigating whether speed, distraction, or other factors played a role in the crash.

Crash Description
Emergency services were called to the scene after reports of a single-vehicle crash involving a Nissan Patrol that had left the roadway and struck a tree. Upon arrival, responders found three occupants—Retallack, a 26-year-old man, and a 23-year-old woman—all critically injured. Despite efforts to revive them, all three were pronounced dead at the scene.

The crash marks another tragic loss amid a devastating weekend on WA roads, with authorities urging drivers to exercise caution and avoid risky behaviors.

Injuries/Fatalities

  • Kyle Retallack, 27, died at the scene from critical injuries sustained in the crash.
  • A 26-year-old man and a 23-year-old woman, who were traveling with Retallack, also died at the scene.

Emergency Response
Emergency services, including paramedics and police, responded swiftly to the crash site after it was reported. Paramedics worked to stabilize the occupants, but all three succumbed to their injuries. Police secured the area and conducted an initial investigation, documenting evidence such as skid marks, vehicle damage, and road conditions.

The Forensic Crash Unit attended the scene to gather further evidence and interview witnesses. Investigators are focusing on potential contributing factors, including speed, driver behavior, and road conditions.

Community Impact
The death of Kyle Retallack has left his family and friends in disbelief, with tributes pouring in from across the community. Close friend Ciana Jayne described Retallack as someone who could “lighten the mood” and bring joy to those around him, even on their darkest days.

She recounted his humor and kindness, saying:

“He was the funniest bloke you’d ever meet. Whenever you were in a s***** mood, you’d talk to him for five minutes and your problems would disappear.”

Social media has been flooded with heartfelt messages, with many describing Retallack as a “caring and gentle person” and a “sweet soul taken too soon.” One tribute read:

“You were seriously one-of-a-kind and there won’t be another like you.”

The tragedy is part of a broader crisis on WA roads, with 39 people killed so far in 2025—a figure higher than at the same point in 2024. Acting Road Police Commander Mike Peters expressed deep concern, stating that first responders faced scenes they will “never forget in their careers.”

Investigation
Authorities are conducting a detailed investigation into the crash, focusing on several key areas:

  • The actions of the driver leading up to the crash, including speed and adherence to road rules.
  • Road conditions, visibility, and environmental factors at the time of the incident.
  • Potential distractions, fatigue, or impairment (alcohol/drugs) affecting the driver.

Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage to come forward to assist with their inquiries. Additionally, investigators are targeting the ‘Fatal Five’ behaviors—speeding, not wearing seatbelts, phone use, fatigue, and drink/drug driving—as part of broader efforts to reduce WA’s rising road toll.

WA Premier Roger Cook highlighted recent investments in road safety, including upgrades to 10,000 kilometers of highway to improve shoulders, add audible edging, and enhance center lines. However, he emphasized that safe driving remains the responsibility of motorists.

Appeal for Information
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the crash to contact Crime Stoppers via their hotline at 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperswa.com.au . Dashcam footage or witness statements could provide critical insights into the events leading up to the tragedy.