Driver to face several charges following Palumpa crash that killed teenage boy

Police have revealed shocking details on what they believe happened immediately after a teenage boy died in Palumpa. Here’s how the driver allegedly tried to cover up the crash.

The CareFlight rescue helicopter has attended a vehicle fatality in Palumpa, in the Daly River region. Picture: Supplied

Police have revealed harrowing details about a ute crash in Palumpa that killed a teenage boy.

Major Crash detectives say 10 males, aged between nine and 27, were occupants in the single-cab ute when it hit a tree early Wednesday afternoon.

A majority of occupants, mostly children, were believed to be in the ute’s tray at the time of the crash.

A 16-year-old boy was reportedly flung from the 4WD’s tray and died at the scene.

Police will allege the driver, 24, moved the vehicle after the crash before setting it alight and destroying it.

It is alleged he then left the scene along with seven passengers prior to police attending.

Detective Senior Sergeant Brendan Lindner said detectives believe the driver was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash in Palumpa. Picture: Floss Adams

The boy and another uninjured passenger were located by officers on patrol before CareFlight was called to the remote community, about 360km southwest of Darwin.

The other passenger was being assessed by CareFlight and local health staff.

Major Crash detectives then flew to the remote community, also known as Nganmarriyanga, to investigate the fatality.

Police said they located the driver on Wednesday evening and a blood sample was taken for forensic toxicology.

“The driver was issued a notice to appear and will face numerous charges,” Detective Senior Sergeant Lindner said.

“We believe he was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash so further charges are expected pending forensic toxicological analysis.”

The 24-year-old is set to face several charges including drive motor vehicle causing death, destruction of evidence, leave scene of accident and breach of suspended sentence.

He has been released from custody.

The man will appear in Darwin Local Court on March 8.

Major Crash detectives remain in Palumpa, which is also continuing to be hit by severe wet weather as a result of ex-Tropical Cyclone Ellie.

“The lives lost on roads now stands at 52 compared to 35 last year,” Sergeant Lindner said.

“Police continue to urge all motorists to ensure their safety and the safety of those around them on Territory roads.

“Our thoughts are with the community and family involved.”

Anyone who has information on the incident is urged to contact police on 131 444.

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