Byron man, 20, killed in car crash

THE family and friends of Ben Donohoe yesterday gathered in mourning at the scene of the horrific car crash that killed the 20-year-old earlier that day.

Flowers and a Red Devils Rugby League Club guernsey mark the site where 20-year-old Ben Donohoe lost his life in a car accident on the Bangalow Road at Byron Bay early yesterday morning. . Picture: Cathy Adams

THE grief-stricken family and friends of Byron Bay man Ben Donohoe yesterday gathered in mourning at the scene of the horrific car crash that killed the friendly and sporty 20-year-old earlier that day.

Ben died about 3.15am yesterday when the car he was in, a Volvo station wagon, failed to negotiate a left-hand turn while travelling south along Bangalow Road at Byron Bay.

The car mounted a kerb and slammed into a tree.

Police said that Ben, who was in the back seat, was thrown from the car and died at the scene.

The 26-year-old driver and a 24-year-old passenger, also of Byron Bay, were hurt in the crash and rushed by ambulance to Tweed Heads Hospital.

One of them was later transferred to the Gold Coast Hospital for further treatment.

A spokeswoman for the Gold Coast Hospital said the patient had been admitted to the intensive care unit and was in a serious condition.

A group of about 30 family members and friends, including Ben’s parents, gathered at the Bangalow Road crash scene yesterday to hug and console each other.

Ben was the youngest of four children and, as well as being a keen surfer, was involved in rugby league with the Byron Bay Red Devils.

Devils players and their opponents, Lismore’s Marist Brothers, observed a moment of silence in honour of their lost friend before yesterday’s home game.

A red team guernsey is now hanging from the tree at the crash scene. Flowers also have been placed at the site.

Ben graduated from Byron Bay High School in 2007 before embarking on the trip of a lifetime – celebrating Schoolies in Bali with his mates.

His Facebook page says his favourite quote was: ‘You only live once’.

A crime scene was established on Bangalow Road and inquiries into the cause of the crash will be carried out by officers from the Ballina Crash Investigation Unit.

Police said they had not decided whether they would lay charges against the driver.

Anyone with information on the crash is urged to contact Byron Bay police on 6685 9499 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

A report on the tragedy will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.

Originally published as Byron man, 20, killed in car crash