A roadside memorial has grown at the scene of a horror Rowville crash, in which two teenagers died.
A roadside memorial has been set up at the site of the crash. Photo: Steven Fleming
The crash occurred on Kelletts Road just after 2.30am on Sunday, March 30th, according to Victoria Police. Emergency services arrived to find the vehicle — believed to have been stolen earlier that evening — had collided with a tree. Both occupants, a 17-year-old and a 16-year-old, died at the scene.
Flowers, photos, and handwritten messages from friends and community members have been placed at the roadside memorial.
Local resident and parent Karen Doyle, who lives two blocks from the crash site, said the incident had shaken the neighbourhood.
“It’s heartbreaking. I didn’t know the boys personally, but I have teenagers myself, and I can’t imagine what those families are going through,” she said.
“You always worry when you see young people getting into risky situations. It makes you ask what more can be done.”
Ms Doyle said she hoped the tragedy would lead to deeper discussions about support services for young people in the area.
“There are good programs in Knox, but maybe there aren’t enough, or they’re not reaching the right kids,” she said.
While police have not officially released the names of the victims, social media posts and tributes at the scene have identified them as Nicholas Crick and Nick Price, both from Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.
According to data from Victoria Police, car theft and youth-related offences have seen slight increases in several Melbourne outer suburbs in recent years. While most youth crime remains opportunistic and non-violent, experts warn that early intervention is critical.
Daniel Tran, a youth outreach coordinator who works across several eastern suburbs, said many at-risk teens were navigating complex issues behind the scenes.
“We often see kids who are dealing with mental health challenges, unstable housing, or just feeling completely disconnected from school and community,” Tran said.
“They’re not bad kids — they’re just struggling, and sometimes they make dangerous decisions.”
Mr Tran believes the incident highlights the need for more accessible, youth-friendly spaces and outreach, especially during evenings and weekends when many teens lack structured activities or safe places to go.
“A lot of support services are 9-to-5, Monday to Friday — that doesn’t match the reality of when young people need help or connection,” he said.
Knox City Council has not issued a formal public statement on the crash, but youth services are reportedly offering support to those affected. The Department of Education is also assisting local schools with counselling resources.
The investigation into the crash is ongoing. Police are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has dashcam footage from the area to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
