Boy to face court over car crash tragedy that killed 16yo

A teen boy who was behind the wheel of a vehicle that rolled over and killed 16-year-old Benjy Weenink has been charged.

The teenage driver behind the wheel of a Toyota Hilux that rolled and crashed killing his mate has been arrested and charged by the police.

South Australian Major Crash Investigators arrested the 17-year-old Dover Gardens boy on Thursday and charged him with aggravated driving without due care and breach of provisional 1 licence.

On December 10, the boy and 16-year-old Benjy Weenink were travelling together in a Toyota Hilux when it lost control and rolled on Main South Road at Second Valley, about 90km south of Adelaide, at 5.15pm.

Benjy died at the scene and three others, a 16-year-old boy and two 15-year-old girls were taken to Flinders Medical Centre for treatment of non life-threatening injuries.

Benjy Weenink, 16, died in the crash at Second Valley on December 10. Picture: Supplied

It is understood the kids had been staying at the Second Valley Caravan Park with adults.

Benjy’s mother, Anna Weenink, paid tribute to her son in a social media post after the crash.

“Benjy is such a special human, he brought fun, light and joy everywhere he went,” Ms Weenink wrote.

“He was warm, open-hearted, adventurous, clever, brave, funny, beautiful, kind and loved by so many.

“He had the most natural ability to put anyone at ease with his gorgeous nature and sparking smile and he was liked by everyone he met.

Main South Road was closed between Forest Road and Roper Lane for several hours while Major Crash officers attended and examined the circumstances surrounding the crash.

The teen driver has been bailed and will appear at Adelaide Youth Court on March 7, 2024.

Originally published as Boy to face court over car crash tragedy that killed 16yo