Raygen McDonald: Shepparton teen remembered after she was killed in Arcadia crash

The mother of a teen killed in a crash south of Shepparton says her daughter had “hope for the future” and was “spectacularly unique”.

Regan McDonald has been remembered for her beautiful spirit after she was killed in a crash near Shepparton on Sunday April 3. PIcture: Submitted

The mother of a teen killed in a crash south of Shepparton says those who knew her daughter were blessed to have known such a caring and “specacularly unique” young woman.

Emergency services were called to a damaged vehicle on Shepparton-Euroa Road, south of Union Street, about 1.50am on Sunday.

Raygen McDonald, 19 from Shepparton, was a passenger in the car and tragically died at the scene.

Her mother, Adele, said her daughter had a heart of gold and was “incredibly” intellgient.

“She influenced so many, in so many ways, and will continue to do so,” she said.

Ms McDonald said everyone was “better” and “stronger” for having known her.

She said her daughter was a caring, patient, thoughtful, passionate, cheeky and strong-willed young woman with “hope for the future”.

“My soul honours your soul. I honour the light, love, truth, beauty and peace and chaos within you, because it is also within me. In sharing these things we are united, we are the same, we are one always,” she said.

Raygen McDonald, 19, tragically died on April 3. Picture: Submitted.

Raygen and her mum Adele. Picture: Submitted.

A statement from Raygen’s family said she “lived life to the fullest and lived it her way”.

“Ray once said when she was five, ‘Mum, I love the rain because it gives everything a wash, everything comes up clean, fresh and new,” the statement read.

“I thought it was a profound statement.”

The 25-year-old driver, also from Shepparton, was taken to Shepparton Base Hospital under police guard in a serious but stable condition.

Police said the exact circumstances surrounding the crash are yet to be determined.

An Ambulance Victoria spokesperson said the man suffered from multiple abrasions, lacerations and fractures.

Anyone who witnessed the crash, with dashcam footage or further information is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

As of March 31 there had been 65 people killed on Victorian roads, up 10.2 per cent from 2021.