Teenager killed after being hit by a car friend in coma
The Sydney Morning Herald
Georgina Mitchell and Sophie Gallagher
January 25,2016
A 14-year-old boy has died and his friend is in an induced coma after they were hit by a car while they were riding on the same scooter in Sydney's south west on Saturday afternoon.
Michael Hannon was sharing a scooter with his 14-year-old friend, who has not been named. The pair were being followed by another friend, 14, on a pushbike as they rode along Othello Avenue in Rosemeadow, near Campbelltown, at 4.05pm.
The trio were riding north in the southbound lane and had just entered a T-intersection with Anthony Drive when both teens on the scooter were hit by a Ford Fiesta travelling west.
Michael Hannon died in Rosemeadow on Saturday. Photo: Supplied
Emergency services were called, but they were unable to revive Michael, who died at the scene.
His friend suffered serious injuries to his head and chest and was flown to Westmead Childrens' Hospital, where he remained in a critical condition.
Acting Inspector Mick Timms, from the NSW Police Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, said it did not appear the boys on the scooter were wearing helmets.
"Bearing in mind, on a scooter there is no requirement to wear a helmet," Acting Inspector Timms said.
The car's driver, a 25-year-old woman, was not injured. She was taken to hospital for mandatory drug and alcohol tests and was interviewed by investigators on Saturday.
Police said there were still witnesses to be interviewed and the investigation was ongoing.
On Sunday, friends paid tribute to Michael by visiting the scene where he died and posting on social media.
One friend described him as "lovely".
"You were such a lovely boy Michael, and you're always going to be forever in our hearts. God has gained another angel, but you were taken way too soon," she posted onMick Timms.
Another friend posted: "Rest easy Michael ... begging everyone to stay safe, especially on the roads as 2016 begins so shitty ... my condolences to the family and friends."
Teenagers and their parents began to lay flowers and memorabilia at the accident site on Sunday, with some hugging and comforting each other.
On the same day as the crash, as double demerit points were in place across the state, police issued 1064 speeding infringements and charged 60 people with drink driving.
Acting Inspector Timms said all road users should exercise caution over the Australia Day long weekend, including on local roads, and drivers should make sure they had plenty of sleep before setting off on a long journey.
A report will be prepared for the coroner.