The deaths of Evan Fielder, 19, and his girlfriend Lauren Quabba, 16, in a head-on crash has sent shockwaves through a Far North Queensland community.
Police say a car and a ute collided head-on along the Bruce Highway near Babinda, south of Cairns, at 7:30pm on Sunday.
The couple, travelling in the same vehicle, died at the scene.
The 17-year-old male driver of the ute was flown to Cairns Base Hospital where he remains in a serious condition.
A member of the public came across the crash and called authorities.
Acting Inspector Ed Lukin said police are yet to confirm the cause of the crash and urged anyone who witnessed the incident to come forward.
"Certainly the investigations will be thorough and very complete," he said.
"We're especially appealing for anyone who has dashcam footage of that area."
Family, friends left devastated by 'big loss'
A relative of Ms Quabba, who did not wish to be named, said her family was in shock.
"They're just devastated but they're being supported by family and friends."
Mr Fielder's family friend, Craig Harris, said he was still coming to terms with the tragedy.
"He was like a son to us. We're just devastated at the moment," Mr Harris said.
"He had everything in front of him — his work and his girlfriend.
"It's just a horrible story."
Club remembers 'friend, mentor'
Mr Fielder has also been remembered as a talented tennis player and coach to juniors in the Cassowary Coast region.
Tully Tennis Club President Tim Murphy said the incident had sent shockwaves through the local community.
"It's just too young, just too young," he said.
"We've lost a friend, a mentor, a great tennis coach — we're devastated."
Mr Murphy said he was greatly admired at the club.
"He was just a lovely kid and all the kids looked up to him," he said.
"It is just a big loss for the school and the tennis community, particularly the juniors coming through."
Mr Murphy said the tennis club would hold a tribute to Mr Fielder in the coming days and was supporting his family.
