By Kyra Gillespie
An 18-year-old Pakenham man has died following a tragic accident in Nar Nar Goon on Tuesday 21 August.
Jason Pinto-Jayawardena died at the scene as a result of injuries sustained in the single-vehicle crash which took place on Bessie Creek Road around 5.30pm.
Investigators say the teenager’s brown Holden Commodore was travelling south on the dirt road when it veered off the road and crashed into a tree.
Jason was the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle.
While investigations are still ongoing, Cardinia Highway Patrol members believe speed was a contributing factor to the crash, along with driver inexperience.
Jason attended Lakeside College before completing Year 7 to 9 at St. Francis Xavier College Officer campus and his Year 10 and 11 studies at the Beaconsfield campus.
“Jason was a valued member of the St. Francis Xavier College community,” St Francis Xavier College Deputy Principal Vera Treloar said.
“He was a dedicated student and well-likde by peers and staff alike. He always interacted in a positive manner with everybody he encountered.
“Jason was a keen member of the rugby team and was committed to his training and playing in the college-wide activity.”
Jason left the college at the end of Year 11 to undertake a plumbing apprenticeship.
“He was a beautiful young man who was polite, respectful and generous.
“I would like to express my condolences to Jason’s family and friends on behalf of the college; we are deeply saddened by this tragedy and our thoughts and prayers are with them at this time.”
The college has offered their counselling services to support students through the grieving process.
Lakeside College Principal, Thomas Brennen, also offered his condolences to the former student’s family and friends.
“The Lakeside College community is saddened to hear of Jason’s passing, our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends,” Mr Brennen said.
Family and friends have taken to social media to pay tribute to the young tradie in the wake of the devastating news of his death:
“You were always so kind and an absolute blast to be around. My heart goes out to your family…we will always love you.”
“May you live through all the lives you have touched in all their happy memories and precious moments with you.”
“Waking up this morning to this terrible news is such a heart break. I can’t believe you’re gone, you were such a kind hearted and genuine person who just loved life.”
“Such a kind-hearted and gentle soul taken too soon.”
The apprentice spent most of his weekends camping and four-wheel driving with friends.
“I hope there’s a mint Cruiser and 4WD tracks up there waiting for you,” a friend wrote.
Jason’s tragic death brings this year’s road toll to 128.
