A tragic incident in New Zealand has claimed the lives of a teenage driver and his co-driver during a rally sprint. The victims, 16-year-old Brooklyn Horan and 35-year-old Tyson Jemmett, lost their lives when their car veered off a gravel road and plunged into a flooded river during the Arcadia Road Rallysprint in Paparoa.
According to police reports, the car went off the road and into the river, leading to the deaths of both Horan and Jemmett at the scene. MotorSport New Zealand confirmed that Horan was behind the wheel when the accident occurred.
Although New Zealanders must be at least 16 to obtain a driver’s license, younger drivers can participate in certain competitions. MotorSport New Zealand’s junior driver program allows individuals aged 12 to 16 to obtain a competition license, and young drivers like Horan frequently compete in these events.
MotorSport New Zealand has announced a full investigation into the incident. In a statement, the organization noted that the rally took place on a closed road, and it is too early to determine the main contributing factors to the crash. However, the road conditions did not appear to be unsafe.
Wayne Christie, president of MotorSport New Zealand, expressed condolences on behalf of the organization, stating, “Our thoughts are with the families and friends of these two competitors and everyone involved with the Arcadia Road Rallysprint.” He added that support will be offered to those affected in the coming days.
Tributes for Horan and Jemmett have poured in on social media. World Rally Championship winner Hayden Paddon shared his sorrow on X, saying, “What a sad event yesterday! Two great people were taken too soon.” He praised Horan as one of the most promising young rally stars with a bright future ahead.
Winger Motorsport extended their condolences to the families of the victims, and 1Eighty Racing remembered Horan as a “natural talent” who will be missed on the track. Hodgson Motorsport shared their heartbreak, recalling Horan’s kind and happy nature, even as he grew into a talented young competitor.
Horan leaves behind his wife, Lucy, who is pregnant with their first child. Friends and former colleagues have started a fundraiser to support her and their unborn child during this difficult time.