Charges laid over teenager’s death
A MAN has been charged over the death of beloved Charters Towers teenager, Paige Gallon, after a lengthy investigation into the horrific crash.
Police will allege the 21-year-old man was driving on drugs when he crashed his car, which Ms Gallon was a passenger in, on the Flinders Highway at Richmond Hill, near Six Mile Creek, on August 3.
Ms Gallon, described as a “treasured” and “gentle soul”, did not survive.
The former student at Columba Catholic College was remembered by her principal, Candi Dempster, as a well-loved student.
“She was a very well-loved and treasured student for many years.
“She will be remembered as a friendly and gentle soul who lived every day knowing that there were countless opportunities. It’s a tight-knit community … everyone treasures their families and children so when someone who is part of that family passes, it has its impacts on a wide range of people. She now rests in God’s loving embrace.”
A 21-year-old man involved in the single-car crash was flown to Townsville University Hospital in a serious but stable condition.
Another man and woman, aged 21 and 29 years old, were taken to Charters Towers Hospital.
The highway was closed in both directions at the time of the crash, and floral tributes remain at the crash site in memory of Ms Gallon.
The 21-year-old Richmond Hill man will face Charters Towers Magistrates Court charged with dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing death, while adversely affected by an intoxicating substance.
He will face court on December 14.