Man dies after packed ute flips at Balmattum, near Euroa

A TEENAGE apprentice has been killed after being thrown from the tray of a packed ute in a crash near Euroa early this morning. His heartbroken mother says he was a popular young man.

A TEENAGE apprentice electrician has been killed after being thrown from the tray of a packed ute in a crash near Euroa early this morning.

Ryley Bjorksten, 19, was one of two young men riding in the tray when the ute rolled on the dirt Faithfuls Creek Rd at Balmattum, near Euroa, about 2.15am.

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His mother Lauren Bjorksten, 50, said the local community was in shock.

“He had a lot of mates, he was very popular,” she said.

“It’s just devastating. It is a small country town everybody knew him. We still don’t know what happened.”

Ryley Bjorksten has been remembered as a very popular young man.

Ryley leaves behind a 15-year-old brother and a girlfriend he had been dating for several years.

Family and friends are gathering at the local football oval to remember the vibrant young man who loved his sport.

An Akubra hat lies next to the tipped over ute. Picture: Alex White

Police investigate the crash today. Picture: Alex White

Detective Sergeant Roz Wilson said the circumstances were still being investigated but alcohol and excessive speed were highly likely.

“We have a couple of them riding in the utility tray and tragically one of those people have lost their life,” she said.

“Again it’s another situation where people should take care be aware of their environment and show responsible driving, especially if you are going to consume alcohol. People should not ride in the back of utes.”

As the Major Collision Squad investigated the crash this morning an Akubra hat lay next to the tipped over ute, which remained on its side on the dirt road.

Police evidence markers record a long skid mark leading up to the vehicle.

Police believe speed and alcohol may have contributed to the crash. Picture: Alex White

Evidence markers record skid marks at the scene. Picture: Alex White

Several other people were injured in the crash.

Two men in their late teens suffered cuts and abrasions and a third teen had possible spinal injuries and were all taken to Goulburn Valley Hospital in Shepparton.

A man aged in his 30s was taken to hospital in Wangaratta with a leg injury.