A teenager has tragically died after crashing into a tree just days before she was due to finish her final Year 12 exams.
Tayla Barber, 18, was driving alone when she crashed on the Euroa-Mansfield Road in Shepparton, northern Victoria, last Saturday afternoon.
Emergency services rushed to the scene and airlifted Ms Barber to hospital but she was unable to be saved.
The teen was in her final year at Shepparton’s Notre Dame College and should have been finishing her last VCE exam this week.
The college has since paid tribute to the student who has been remembered as a ‘confident, respectful, and kind-hearted young woman’.
Tayla Barber, 18, was driving alone when she crashed into a tree on the Euroa-Mansfield Road in Shepparton, northern Victoria, last Saturday afternoon
The teen was in her final year at Shepparton’s Notre Dame College and tragically should have been finishing her last VCE exam this week
‘She was a confident, respectful, and kind-hearted young woman who would never shy away from voicing her thoughts and feelings aloud,’ the college wrote.
‘She always considered the feelings of those closest to her and highly valued her relationships with others.
‘Her sudden and unexpected passing has left us profoundly heartbroken at a time of celebration and accomplishment for our Year 12 graduates.
‘We extend our deepest sympathies to Tayla’s family and friends at this time, she will be truly missed.’
Loved ones have also paid tribute to the student.
‘To watch her grow in confidence and maturity was a blessing. She was a fair, kind, helpful and beautiful young person that cared for all her friends,’ one wrote.
‘I am grateful that I saw her smiling face almost every day in these last 6 years. A very mature, genuine, respectful and compassionate person. You will be truly missed Tayla,’ said another.
Victoria Police are investigating the cause of the crash and say the circumstances surrounding the accident are yet to be determined.
Anyone who witnessed the incident, has dashcam, CCTV footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Victoria Police are investigating the cause of the crash and say the circumstances surrounding the accident are yet to be determined