Cairns community light candles for crash victim Savannah Spence Paige

Dozens of mourners congregate at Cairns' Fogarty Park on Sunday night to pay respects to Savannah Spence Paige, a 25-year-old woman who lost her life in a tragic car accident on August 5. Paige was struck by a ute, allegedly stolen from Palm Cove only moments prior, while driving on the Smithfield Bypass. A candlelit vigil was held in her memory, with community members gathering to express their grief and support for the victim's family.

Shinae West, the vigil's organizer, emphasized the importance of providing a space for the community to grieve together, particularly as her own family experienced a similar tragedy two decades ago. Jake Edward Warn, 36, has been charged with manslaughter and four other offenses in connection with the crash and is currently in custody awaiting his next hearing in October. Police have indicated they may seek to upgrade the charge to murder.

Paige's family expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support from locals and described the young woman as possessing a great sense of humor and a kind, caring nature. They mourned the fact that she had only recently begun a new life with her husband in Cairns. The community's response to the tragic event has been marked by a sense of solidarity, with many attending the vigil to show their support for the family during this difficult time.