Boy admits killing two teenagers in fatal Barton Highway crash

The fatal crash on the Barton Highway on 17 January 2024 resulted in the deaths of two teenagers. Photo: ACT Policing.

CONTENT WARNING: This story may be distressing for some readers.

A boy has admitted that when he was 14, he caused a fatal crash on the Barton Highway that ultimately resulted in the deaths of two teenagers.

Now aged 15, he faced the ACT Supreme Court on Wednesday (5 March) and pleaded guilty to two charges over the deaths of two of his passengers, 19-year-old Joshua Stewart and another 14-year-old boy.

On 17 January 2024, he was driving a car when he caused a crash on the highway.

The courts have previously heard that Mr Stewart died after the crash while the 14-year-old boy was left with life-threatening head and chest injuries and was taken to hospital.

He was left in a coma for a time and died from his injuries in August 2024.

The 14-year-old victim’s mother, family members and close family friends arrived in the courtroom on Wednesday to watch the boy plead guilty to two counts of culpable driving causing death.

Afterwards, Chief Justice Lucy McCallum ordered a pre-sentence report and said the matter would have to go before the court’s registrar to obtain a sentencing date.

This means the boy, who remains in custody, will be sentenced in the future.

If you or someone you know needs help, you can contact:

Lifeline’s 24-hour crisis support line – 13 11 14
Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467
Kids Helpline – 1800 551 800
MensLine Australia – 1300 789 978.