More than $20K donated to family of killed 17yo boy in Loftus car crash

More than $25,000 has been raised for the family of a 17-year-old boy killed when his car crashed into a tree at Loftus early Sunday morning.

More than $25,000 has been raised in less than 24 hours after a teenager tragically died in a car accident in Loftus on the weekend.

Nicholas Pugh has been identified as the 17-year-old boy who was involved in the single-vehicle car crash, with family members taking to Facebook to share their loss of the “sweet boy”.

Emergency services were called to the Princes Highway, Loftus about 3am on Sunday following reports a Ford Territory had left the roadway and collided with a number of trees.

Nicholas was travelling in the northbound lanes.

An older photo of Pauline and Tony Pugh with their children, including Nicholas Pugh who died on the weekend, posted to an online fundraising site. Picture: Supplied

A number of witnesses nearby went to the assistance of Nicholas and he was the only occupant before emergency services attended.

Nicholas died at the scene.

Nicholas’ aunt Veronica Pierce set up a GoFundMe page for her sister and brother-in-law Tony Pugh on Sunday.

“As the family car was written off, they desperately need funds to replace it and need help with funeral costs,” the page said.

“My sister Pauline cares for her ill husband Tony, who has Parkinson’s disease, and her autistic son Jacob while raising two other children.

“As neither parent is able to work, they need desperate help.”

Debris from the crashed car. Picture: Ashleigh Tullis

Debris from the crashed car. Picture: Ashleigh Tullis

In 24 hours, $26,500 had been raised as at 6pm on Monday.

Nicholas’ cousin Bridget Pierce said any support for the family was “very appreciated”.

“Lost my 17 year old cousin Nicholas today,” she said. “An absolute tragedy and a young life lost far too soon. Rest in peace angel.”

Another of Nicholas’ cousins said in a Facebook post, “May my 17 year old cousin rest in peace”.

“He was such a lovely and sweet boy who will forever be in our hearts. His family are in need of financial support for the funeral and other costs so if you can, any donations would be much appreciated,” she said.

Emergency services were called to the Princes Highway, Loftus about 3am on Sunday, July 17 following reports a Ford Territory had left the roadway and collided with a number of trees. Picture: Ashleigh Tullis

Sutherland Shire Police Area Command officers attended and established a crime scene, which was forensically examined by the crash investigation unit.

As inquiries continue into the incident, police are urging any witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage who has not yet come forward to contact Sutherland Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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