HOFFMAN, WA — A tight-knit community in Western Australia’s South West is reeling after a tragic off-road crash claimed the life of 15-year-old Caitlyn Bragger on Saturday evening, June 7, near Logue Brook Dam.
Caitlyn, remembered by loved ones as “a ray of sunshine everywhere she went,” was one of six teenagers riding in a Toyota LandCruiser that overturned on Scarp Road in Hoffman, just north of Harvey, around 8 p.m. The group had been camping nearby in the Lake Brockman area before the crash occurred.
Authorities say the vehicle was being driven by a 16-year-old boy, who does not yet meet the legal age for a provisional driver’s license in Western Australia. The LandCruiser rolled off the road, resulting in fatal injuries to Caitlyn and critical injuries to another young passenger.
Witnesses at a nearby campsite described hearing a loud crash followed by desperate cries for help. Several campers, including teens Jett, Rocquo, Macy, and Kane, raced to the scene in an attempt to rescue those trapped inside 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 a passenger and described the front of the vehicle as “completely crushed.” Emergency crews later confirmed that one individual was trapped and had to be freed by volunteer firefighters. The crash left behind flattened tree branches and shattered glass scattered across the site.
Caitlyn’s death has left her family and friends heartbroken. In a tribute, they described her as an outgoing and 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 current Western Australia licensing laws, individuals must be at least 17 years old to hold a provisional license. Sixteen-year-olds may only drive with a learner’s permit and must be accompanied by a fully licensed supervisor.
Police are continuing to investigate the crash and are asking anyone with dashcam footage from the Hoffman area on the night of June 7 to come forward.
Caitlyn’s tragic passing marks yet another heartbreaking addition to the state’s rising road toll, which now stands at 85 fatalities, the highest year-to-date figure in more than a decade.
As the community mourns, friends and family remember Caitlyn not only for the joyful spirit she shared, but for the lasting light she leaves behind.