Girl, 9, killed in 'dreadfully tragic' crash after being thrown from quad bike

24 July 2023 , 09:27

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Layla Lupica was tragically killed after being thrown from a quad bike (Image: Facebook)

A family has been left devastated after a young girl tragically died after being thrown from a quad bike driven by her dad.

Nine-year old Layla Lupica died at the scene of the accident despite frantic efforts to revive her, after the small off-road vehicle the pair were travelling on rolled.

The incident, which occurred at a popular tourist spot near Perth, Australia, also saw Layla's 34-year old father hospitalised with minor injuries.

After the Western Australia government vowed to review quad bike regulations, grandfather Mike Rapaic outlined his hope that others will learn from the tragedy.

"There could be no greater sadness than the passing of a young child who had no choice whether they lived or died," he said in a statement.

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Police are investigating the incident, which occurred in a popular are for hikers and mountain bikers in Western Australia (9News)

"I hope this misfortunate incident is not a death in vain."

State premier Roger Cook offered his condolences to the family.

"I just think it's a dreadful tragedy, and it must've been horrible for those who were on the scene and horrible for the family, and my heart goes out to them. This a dreadfully tragic set of circumstances.

"Quad bikes and other forms of off-road vehicles are great adventure apparatuses, but they need to be treated with a great deal of respect and care."

Police returned to the scene with drones on Sunday to investigate how the accident unfolded, but it could be months before the case is concluded.

So far no charges have been made.

Other visitors to the park, which is a hotspot for hikers and mountain bikers, told 7News reporters they were shocked to learn of the accident.

One woman said: "It's horrendous.. you know, people come out to have quality family time and something like this happens, and it breaks people's hearts."

Investigators have urged any witnesses of the quad bike who were present at the park to come forward.

Alan Johnson