Bundaberg teen Kody Owttrim stable after graduation night crash
What began as graduation celebrations ended in tragedy when a Bundaberg teen was hit by a ute, sparking an outpouring of community support.
Friends of the teenager hit and critically injured while walking home from graduation celebrations after the Shalom College formal in Bundaberg last Friday have created a GoFundMe for his recovery.
The teen, identified as Kody Owttrim, 17, was walking home from a Shalom College graduation party when he was struck by a ute on Goodwood Road at Thabeban about 11pm on October 24.
Emergency services were called to reports he had been hit by a SssangYong dual cab ute and he was transported to Bundaberg Hospital with serious injuries including potentially life-threatening head and chest injuries.
On Monday, a Wide Bay Hospital and Health spokesperson said Kody remained in a critical but stable condition.
Witnesses said it was an “overwhelming scene to arrive to” with a sea of red and blue flashing lights.
Another said there were many of cars and young people “helplessly” standing by the side of the road and watching.
The driver of the ute did not sustain any physical injuries.
On Wednesday night, a Metro North Hospital and Health spokesperson said Kody was in a stable condition.
The GoFundMe was created on October 28, four days after Kody’s accident, and by Thursday morning had amassed 71 donations totalling $6404.
The largest donation, $2000, was made by Kody’s father Mark Owttrim.
The GoFundMe reads:
“Hey, many people have wanted to help contribute to Kodys road to recovery. We have made this page to support him with any additional needs that may come during his recovery. Any donations are welcome.”
Anyone with relevant information or footage from the incident was urged to contact police.
