On Saturday, June 7, 2025, a tragic accident in Western Australia claimed the life of a 15-year-old girl and left five other teens injured when their SUV flipped on a remote track near Hoffman, a small town about 85 miles south of Perth.
The girl, Caitlyn Bragger, was a passenger in the vehicle, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). The 16-year-old boy driving the SUV and a 17-year-old male passenger were seriously injured, while three other passengers suffered minor injuries, as reported by News.com.au. All but one of the injured have been released from the hospital.
Volunteer firefighters worked to free one of the passengers trapped in the wrecked vehicle, the ABC said. The group of teens had reportedly been camping at Logue Brook Dam before the crash.
Caitlyn’s mother, Sarah Highwood, shared her heartbreak with the ABC, saying, “Life will never be the same. She was my whole world, and my heart is in pieces.” She added, “I love you, miss you, and want to kiss you.”
A GoFundMe page created to support Caitlyn’s family has raised over $11,500 AUD ($15,600 USD) toward its $18,000 AUD ($24,000 USD) goal. The page, set up by Mekayla Cowcher, describes Caitlyn as “Our Angel In Heaven,” highlighting her kindness, humor, and love for her family and friends. “She brought a ray of sunshine everywhere she went,” the description reads.
The fundraiser aims to help cover funeral and memorial costs and ease the financial strain on Caitlyn’s family, who are struggling with their loss. “Every donation will help give Caitlyn the farewell she deserves and support her family during this difficult time,” Cowcher wrote.
This report is based on verified information from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation and News.com.au, accurate as of today, June 10, 2025, under the current U.S. presidency of Donald Trump.