Caitlyn Bragger, a 15-year-old from Western Australia’s South West, tragically lost her life in an off-road crash on Saturday evening, June 7, near Logue Brook Dam.
Caitlyn, described by loved ones as “a ray of sunshine everywhere she went,” was one of six teenagers in a Toyota LandCruiser when it overturned on Scarp Road in Hoffman, just north of Harvey, around 8 p.m. The group had been camping in the nearby Lake Brockman area before the incident occurred.
Authorities report that the vehicle was being driven by a 16-year-old boy, who was not yet old enough to hold a provisional driver’s license in Western Australia. The crash resulted in fatal injuries to Caitlyn and critical injuries to another passenger.
Witnesses at a nearby campsite heard the loud crash followed by cries for help. Several campers, including teens Jett, Rocquo, Macy, and Kane, rushed to the scene to assist those trapped in the wreckage.
“The car was crumpled like a tin can,” said Jett. “We tried our best to help, but it was overwhelming.”
Rocquo recalled helping to remove a door to free one of the passengers and described the front of the vehicle as “completely crushed.” Emergency responders later confirmed that one individual had to be freed by volunteer firefighters. The scene was marked by flattened tree branches and shattered glass scattered around the site.
Caitlyn’s death has left her family and friends devastated. In a tribute, her loved ones described her as an outgoing, kind young woman with a vibrant sense of humor and a deep love for those around her. “She brought joy into every room. There was never a dull moment when Caitlyn was around,” her family said.
Four other teenagers, including the 16-year-old driver, a 17-year-old boy, and two 16-year-old girls, were taken to Bunbury Regional Hospital, with one remaining in serious condition. An 18-year-old male was transported separately to Harvey Regional Hospital.
Under Western Australian law, individuals must be at least 17 years old to hold a provisional driver’s license, and 16-year-olds may only drive with a learner’s permit while accompanied by a fully licensed supervisor.
Police are continuing their investigation and have urged anyone with dashcam footage from the Hoffman area on the night of June 7 to come forward.
Caitlyn’s passing adds to the state’s rising road toll, now standing at 85 fatalities for the year, the highest year-to-date total in over a decade.
As the community mourns, Caitlyn’s family and friends remember her not only for her joyful spirit but for the lasting light she leaves behind.
