17-year-old ‘star’ Aussie rules player identified as victim in fatal crash

An up-and-coming Australian rules star has been identified as the teen killed in a horrific early morning crash.

Cervantes Tiger Sharks player Jordan Culley, 17, was behind the wheel when the white Toyota LandCruiser left the road and rolled several times at 5:10am on Tuesday, November 28.

The car was travelling along Indian Ocean Drive south of Leeman, about 250km from Perth.

According to WA Police, Culley sustained critical injuries in the crash and died at the scene.

It is understood he was only 18 days shy of his 18th birthday at the time of the fatal accident.

An 18-year-old woman sustained serious injuries and was flown to Royal Perth Hospital for treatment, while two other male passengers – aged 16 and 20 – were raced to Jurien Bay Hospital.

In the wake of the accident, the Cervantes Tiger Sharks club posted a heartfelt tribute to their talented young player on Wednesday.

“It’s with a heavy heart that we’re making this post. In the early hours of yesterday morning Jordan Culley was tragically killed in a car accident. The Club, and community, has lost one of its brightest young stars, at just 17 years of age,” the Facebook post read.

“Jordan has played the last two years in the Reserves, winning a premiership, alongside his big brother Blake in 2022, and this year finished Runner Up Fairest & Best, and 3rd in the association, The Ian Wyatt Medal.”

“Jordan was a much loved member of the Tiger Sharks Family, and will be forever missed. Hug your teammates, hug your friends, hug your family.”

“Take ‘em on Jordan, # 9.”

Beneath the post, fellow club and community members shared tributes to the much-loved teenager.

“My deepest sympathy to Jordan’s family and friends, and to the Tigershark family. So terribly sad. Another star shining bright in the heavens tonight. R.I.P. Jordan,” one person commented.

“Condolences to the Culley family, extended family, friends, Cervantes Tiger Sharks club, first responders and all those who were blessed to have known Jordan,” a second posted.

Police are still seeking information about the fatal crash, which occurred on a notoriously dangerous stretch of highway.

Indian Ocean Drive was previously rated among the most dangerous roads in regional WA according to an RAC “risky roads” survey.

Since 2010, nine people have died and 40 have been injured in accidents along the coastal highway.

Police urged anyone who saw the Toyota LandCruiser travelling in the area prior to the crash, or may have dashcam vision, to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.