The community is reeling after the devastating loss of two bright 20-year-olds, Vicky-May Davies and Memphis Strachan, who were tragically killed in a crash involving a car and a truck on State Highway 1 at Brynderwyn early on the morning of October 17. The news has sent shockwaves, particularly through the wider Mana College community, which is already grappling with an unimaginable amount of grief this year.
Police have formally identified the two young people who sadly died at the scene. The driver of the truck involved in the collision only sustained minor injuries, but for the families and friends of Vicky-May and Memphis, the pain is profound and immediate. The police have extended their thoughts to all the whānau and loved ones impacted by this horrible event, confirming that enquiries into the exact cause of the crash are ongoing.
The loss of Memphis, in particular, has prompted an outpouring of tributes, painting a picture of a young man who truly left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered. The Labour MP for the Mana electorate, Barbara Edmonds, joined the mourning, sharing her heartfelt condolences online and speaking to the incredible nature of Memphis. She recounted last seeing him at a friend’s funeral, where even in his own sorrow, he was dedicated to comforting others and trying to bring a little laughter to a dark day.
This quality—that big, infectious smile and positive attitude—was a recurring theme in the tributes. Memphis had a long association with the Kāpiti BMX Club, who remembered him for having “such a huge heart.” They shared their deep sadness, noting that they are “gonna miss that big smile.” His passion for being part of a community also shone through in his refereeing for the Wellington Rugby Referees Association.
Mark Fairmaid from the Association shared that Memphis, who joined them three years ago while still a student at Mana College, “immediately made an impact with his outgoing personality and keenness to learn.” Fairmaid went on to highlight Memphis’s exceptional energy and enthusiasm for rugby and refereeing, stating they were “second to none.” The association collectively extended their thoughts to his family, acknowledging that Memphis will be deeply missed by all who were lucky enough to know him.
The shadow of this tragedy looms large over the local college. MP Edmonds spoke to the sheer devastation facing the Mana College community, sharing her condolences to the Davies family for the loss of their daughter Vicky-May, and acknowledging the wider school family. In a truly heartbreaking statement, she noted that to lose “one student in a year is tough, to lose two current students and then two recent school leavers in one year is devastating.”
It’s clear that this is a community united in grief, enduring a seemingly endless period of sadness. However, MP Edmonds also offered a note of resilience, affirming that despite the overwhelming loss, the community will get through this tough time, “together, as we always have.” The focus now remains on supporting the grieving families and friends of Vicky-May Davies and Memphis Strachan, two vibrant young lives taken far too soon.
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