Duane Tate Troy Power charged over death of JCU medical student Wangige Kiumbura

The identity of a man accused of causing an explosive crash killing a young woman studying medicine has been revealed.

Fifth year James Cook University medical student Wangige Kiumbura was killed when her BMW exploded into flames following a head-on crash on the Bruce Highway at Myrtlevale, just after 5pm on September 15.

A Bowen man who allegedly caused a horror Bruce Highway crash that killed a James Cook University medical student has appeared in court for the first time.

Duane Tate Troy Power was charged with dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing death whilst adversely affected by an intoxicating substance and driving under the influence of liquor.

At around 5pm on September 15, emergency services were called to the two-vehicle crash on the Bruce Highway in Myrtlevale, involving a utility vehicle and a BMW sedan.

Aftermath of the crash which killed a 22 year old woman, on the Bruce Highway near Myrtlevale on September 15, 2024. Picture: Facebook

The driver of the sedan, Burdell resident Wangige Kiumbura, had been travelling home to Mackay at the time of the crash.

Ms Kiumbura’s BMW exploded into flames after the head on collision. She tragically died at the scene.

The James Cook University community paid tribute to the fifth-year student who was buried in Townsville on October 2.

BMA CQ Rescue was tasked to Proserpine after the horror crash on the Bruce Highway at Myrtlevale. The AW139 landed on the highway and transported the man in his 60s for further treatment at Mackay Base Hospital. Picture: BMA CQ Rescue

“Wangige was an exceptionally talented young singer, student and most of all friend to all those who knew her, particularly those in Townsville and Mackay,” the university said.

“As someone who committed herself to numerous extracurricular pursuits over the years, perhaps Wangige’s greatest ability was to make everyone feel uniquely special when interacting with her; as if you were the only person in the room.

“It is clear she was a vibrant and much-loved peer in the JCU medicine cohort, and she will be profoundly missed.”

Mr Power, who is alleged to have been driving the ute, was flown to Mackay Hospital in a critical condition.

Solicitor for Harvey Legal, Laura Santin, appeared via phone on behalf of Mr Power in the Proserpine Magistrates court on Monday where it was requested that a brief of evidence be prepared ahead of a committal review.

The case was adjourned to 28 April.

Originally published as Duane Tate Troy Power charged over death of JCU medical student Wangige Kiumbura