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CENTRAL WEST, NSW, Australia – An Orange boy has been named as the victim of Friday night’s road traffic three-way collision on the Mitchell Highway.

15-year old John Keegan was killed when he went to the aid of two elderly women injured in a crash with his 17-year old mate’s Toyota utility. As young John was approaching the BMW which had collided with the ute, a Prime Mover truck struck both cars, killing the teenager instantly.

His family was left distraught, particularly as his death reportedly coincided with that of his 76-year old grandmother who passed away Friday night due to natural causes associated with a longtime condition of dementia.

John’s Mum and Dad, Jason and Penny Keegan paid tribute to their son, a promising local rugby union player, who played in the Orange City Rugby Union Club’s Under 16s side.

“Despite this being a heartbreaking time for the entire family, we are so proud that the caring qualities he displayed throughout his life were exemplified in his final moments,” they said in a statement released on Saturday.

“Although too short, we feel truly blessed to have had John touch our lives in such a profound way and leave us with such indelible memories. His absence will be felt by us, his 4 sisters, younger brother, and his extended family.”

“The close friendships he forged with so many was testament to his fun-loving, loyal nature,” John’s parents said.

“The love and support shown by the Orange Community have given us all great comfort.

“We would like to express our thanks to the emergency services teams that attended the scene last night,” the statement said.

The youngster’s football club also paid tribute. “Yesterday we all woke to some very sad news, with the sudden and tragic passing of one of our own who played in the 16s, John Keegan. His family has been a part of our club since his father Jason strapped on the boots for us in the late 80’s/90’s,” the Orange City Rugby Union Club statement released on Sunday said.

“Before our main game we had a minute’s silence to honour John.”

“Our thoughts and condolences go out to Penny, Jason, and the entire Keegan family. You’re all in our thoughts,” the Orange club’s statement said.

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15-year old boy killed in tragic 3-way collision in Central West