Tributes flow for 20-year-old Mark Williams after horror Land Cruiser rollover into croc-infested waters

The Top End community has rallied around the family of a young man, whose horror final moments were spent trapped in a sinking car following a rollover near Dundee Downs.

Mark Williams was just 20 when he was killed after a Land Cruiser crashed and rolled into waters near Dundee Downs on Thursday January 18.

A young man with a golden boot, a shining smile and an unmatched exuberance for life has been identified as the victim of a horrific crash into croc-infested waters.

Mark Williams was one of two people reportedly trapped in a car when it crashed and rolled into the water near Six Pack Creek boat ramp, Dundee Downs, a popular Top End fishing spot, 123km west of Darwin, on Thursday.

The 20-year-old driver was unable to escape as the Toyota Land Cruiser sunk below the surface.

The other occupant was able to escape without serious injury and was taken to Royal Darwin Hospital.

The recovery of Mark’s body was delayed as police attempted to drag the sunken Land Cruiser from the saltwater crocodile habitat.

Mark Williams with Levi Nichaloff. Mr Williams, 20, was killed following a horror rollover into waters near Dundee Downs on Thursday, January 18.

Major Crash investigators continue to investigate, with alcohol believed to be a factor in the horror fatal crash.

Many have been heartbroken by the young Darwin man’s death, sharing stories of the cheeky, outgoing and talented young friend, brother and teammate.

Mr Williams began his junior rugby journey at the Palmerston Crocs, which pushed him towards representative honours for the NT.

The Crocs shared their sadness on Facebook calling the young player a “remarkable young man whose departure came too soon”.

“Mark’s journey with the Crocs began in junior rugby, where he showcased his talent and eventually earned representative honours for the NT,” the post said.

“Progressing to the senior ranks, he had the privilege of sharing the field with his cousin, Anthony Smith, proudly donning the red, white, and blue of Palmerston Crocs.

“A player of great promise, Mark’s toughness and impressive pace made him a standout on the wing and in the centres.

“His dedication to the sport and his positive impact on and off the field will be deeply missed by his Crocs teammates.

Mark Williams (left) with Eddie Weaver. Mr Williams was just 20 when he was killed after a Land Cruiser crashed and rolled into waters near Dundee Downs on Thursday January 18.

“In remembrance, we bid farewell to Mark with gratitude for the indelible mark he left on the rugby community. Our thoughts are with the Williams family during this difficult time.”

He also played rugby league for the Northern Sharks where his impressive pace was undeniable and he became known for a length of the field try against the Litchfield Bears.

“Mark’s presence was a shining light, and his smile infectious. He will be remembered fondly and missed deeply at the club,” a post on their page said.

In a statement send to the NT News, a Northern Sharks representative said there were “no words that can be mustered up on the loss of our fallen brother”.

“Mark was a rare gift that was unbelievably blessed with natural talent,” he said.

“He represented many clubs in AFL, rugby union, and rugby league. But it is the Northern Sharks where home was for him.”

The club said the young man followed in the footsteps of his uncle, namesake and Sharks legend, Mark Webster — even winning the Rookie of the Year title named after the late Mr Webster.

“In his first year in seniors only at the age of 17, Mark Williams won his uncle’s award and also the youngest to win another prestigious award the Marty Rammage footballer of the year,” he said

Northern Sharks Rugby League Club paid tribute to 20-year-old Mark Williams who was killed after a Land Cruiser rolled and crashed into waters near Dundee Downs on Thursday, January 18.

“From the Northern Sharks, we’d like to thank you Marky for the memories and your gifts you shared to us when putting on the jersey.

“And our deepest sincere condolences to the family.”

Online tributes have commemorated the life of the “amazing young man” taken too soon, in such a horrifying crash.

Matthew St Clair said his heart went out to Mark’s family after “losing such a beautiful, happy and friendly young man”.

“Mark will be sorely missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him,” he wrote on Facebook.

Dakoda Dalton said she missed him already, and hoping he was somewhere with “heaps of boar and grog for you brother”.

“Rest in paradise brother, you’ll be missed forever,” Beau Tedcastle also wrote.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.