THE Tenterfield community is mourning the loss of two teenage boys after they were killed in a crash at the weekend and a mother is grieving the death of a second son in five years.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Named in the media as Zak Sweetman, 18, and Luke Smith, 16, the teenagers were passengers in a ute that veered off the New England Highway at Glen Aplin, 45km north of Tenterfield, and rolled at least once late on Saturday night, killing both teenagers and leaving the driver and another teen injured.
The teenagers, all from Tenterfield, were travelling towards Stanthorpe when the dual cab ute crashed.
The 17-year-old driver and a 19-year-old passenger were taken to Stanthorpe hospital early Sunday morning with minor injuries and shock.
One of the passengers was reportedly thrown from the vehicle on impact.
Friends and family have paid tribute to Zac and Luke, who was a Tenterfield High School student, on social media.
“It’s heartbreaking seeing my family and in-laws devastated and not being able to do a thing to help, but it’s comforting to know they have a whole town full of love to support them. RIP Zak & Luke xo,” Amanda Condrick said on Facebook.
It’s not the first time the Sweetman family has been struck by tragedy, with Zak’s big brother, Brendan, killed five years ago after jumping into a waterhole at NSW’s Boonoo Boonoo National Park.
Brendan’s motto, “One life, one chance”, was adopted by his younger brother.
“Rest in piece (sic) Zakky Sweetman! I’m sure Brendan Sweetman will be looking after you up there. One Life, One Chance,” Sarah Musumeci said on Facebook.
Therese Sweeney wrote: “Another angel gone to (sic) soon Zakky Sweetman. Brendan will have his arms wrapped around him now and forever. Love to you all xxx.”
A GoFundMe page for the Sweetman family has raised more than $2000.
It was believed no other vehicles were involved.
The Forensic Crash Unit haslaunched an investigation and will prepare a report for the coroner.
