December 2, 2024

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

Two teenagers have been charged after a stolen car crashed into a tree in Mooroobool, Cairns, leaving a 15-year-old passenger in critical condition. The incident occurred on Sunday morning, December 1, 2024, and involved a group of boys aged 12 to 15 who allegedly stole a car and went on a crime spree before the crash.

Location and Time

The crash happened around 9:00 am on McEwan Street in Mooroobool, Cairns.

Vehicle Involved

The crash involved a single vehicle, a black Haval Jolion, which was allegedly stolen from a home in Mount Sheridan around 3:00 am that same morning.

Incident Description

Before the crash, the teenagers allegedly drove the stolen car to Gordonvale, where they stole fuel, and then to Innisfail, where they broke into a cafe and attempted to break into another business. The car was then seen driving erratically on the Bruce Highway near Babinda before it crashed into a tree in Mooroobool.

Injuries

A 15-year-old boy who was a passenger in the car sustained critical head injuries and was trapped in the wreckage. He was flown to Townsville Hospital, where he remains in a critical condition. A 12-year-old boy suffered a fractured pelvis and is in stable condition at Cairns Hospital.

Emergency Response

Emergency services were called to the scene, and the injured boys were transported to hospitals.

Investigation and Charges

Police are investigating the incident. A 14-year-old boy, who was allegedly driving the car, has been charged with two counts of dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing grievous bodily harm, several stealing offenses, and unlawful use of a motor vehicle. He has been refused bail and will remain in custody. A 15-year-old boy has been charged with unlawful use of a motor vehicle, two counts of entering a premises, and one count of stealing.

Court Proceedings

The 14-year-old boy appeared in Cairns Children’s Court via video link. The magistrate refused bail, citing the seriousness of the offenses and an unacceptable risk of re-offending. The boy’s defense lawyer argued that he had made a “silly decision” to get in the car and was remorseful for his actions. The case has been adjourned to January 14, 2025.

Community Impact

This incident has shocked the Cairns community and highlighted the dangers of youth crime and reckless driving. The magistrate emphasized the impact on community safety when young people steal cars and are involved in serious accidents.

Contributing Factors

The contributing factors to the crash are still under investigation. However, the alleged dangerous driving, the driver’s age and inexperience, and the fact that the car was stolen suggest that these factors played a significant role in the incident.