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The family of a teenager killed after a car crashed off the road and plunged into a river in Marlborough at the weekend says his “incomprehensible” loss is a pain no parent should ever bear.
Emergency services were called to the intersection of State Highway 1and Bush Rd in Tuamarina north of Blenheim at 1.45am on Sunday.
Five people were in the car and two were able to get out safely, but three were initially missing. The three bodies were recovered later that day.
Police this afternoon revealed 19-year-old Brayden Charles Allen of Picton, Marlborough as one of the victims.
“Police would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the family of the deceased.”
In a statement, Allen’s family said they were “heartbroken to announce” his passing early on Sunday morning.
Brayden Charles Allen, 19, was one of three teenagers killed after a car crashed into a Marlborough river on Sunday morning. Photo / NZ Police
“Brayden was the cherished son of Scott Allen and Erin Ellis and was also deeply loved by stepdad Zane Ellis and stepmum Jocelyne Allen,” the statement read.
“He was the most fun-loving, out-of-this-world character who truly lived life to the fullest, and his loss is incomprehensible to us all. The love between a parent and a child is beyond measure, and Brayden filled his parents’ lives with joy, laughter, and endless love.
“The loss of a child is a pain no parent should ever bear, and the grief we feel is overwhelming and unimaginable. Brayden’s life was a light in all our lives, and that light will forever remain in our hearts.”
The statement said Allen had a bond “nothing short of extraordinary” with his younger brother Ajani.
“They shared a connection that was deep, unshakable, and uniquely their own. Their relationship was built on love, understanding, and a shared sense of adventure. It was as if the two brothers had their own language, a silent connection that was felt by everyone around them.
“Brayden was more than just a big brother to Ajani - he was his protector, his best friend, and his biggest supporter.”
It said their closeness was “a joy to witness” and a reflection of Allen’s “huge heart and his devotion to those he loved”.
The intersection of State Highway 1 and Bush Rd, Tuamarina where a car with five occupants plunged into the river on Sunday morning. Photo / Google
“Brayden passionately embraced the outdoors and lived every moment to the extreme with his adoring sidekick Busta,” the statement continued.
“His adventurous spirit and love for life were infectious, making every moment with him feel larger than life. He had a way of bringing light into any situation, and his ability to lift up others knew no bounds.
“With a heart bigger than he sometimes knew how to handle, Brayden was fiercely loyal and loving to all who were fortunate enough to know him.
“He was, without a doubt, a person whose joy for life and deep care for others left a mark on everyone he met. Brayden’s departure leaves an irreplaceable void in our hearts, but we are so incredibly grateful for the joy he brought into our lives. We will hold on to his memory, his love, and his adventurous spirit forever.”
In lieu of flowers, his family requested donations could be made to the Nelson/Marlborough rescue helicopter.
The Herald understands Allen was involved in a freak workplace accident in March last year, suffering a traumatic brain injury and fracture to his skull.
Marlborough App reported Allen was working at a logging operation site near Seddon when he was struck on the head by a falling rock.
“My boss reckoned it was the size of his fist. There was blood pouring from my head and when I was laying on the hillside, I did wonder if I’d make it,” Allen said.
“I remember the paramedic arriving and being put in the helicopter but that’s all I remember until I woke up in Wellington Hospital with all my family there.”
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“I don’t think anyone can hear news like that and not have their hearts go out to the families. You start the day and your family is all intact and somewhere along the line, the family is going to get news that will change their lives.”
She said the community was with the families of the victims.
It is understood the third victim was Tyler Shields, a 22-year-old from Picton.
