A young man with an “infectious smile” had just celebrated his 18th birthday a week before he died when he was hit by two cars in Adelaide.
Campbell Thorp was crossing the busy nightlife strip of Hindley St at 11pm on Saturday when he was hit by a Toyota sedan, causing him to fall into the path of a 4WD.
Paramedics rushed him to hospital in a critical condition, but he could not be saved.
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On Monday, Campbell’s family shared their devastation with 7NEWS, saying the tragedy came just days after he celebrated a huge milestone.
“Our hearts are broken,” they said.
“Just a week ago we celebrated his 18th birthday. He was six months into his carpentry apprenticeship, building a future we were so proud to watch take shape.”
Campbell Thorp died after being hit by a sedan on Saturday night, caused him to fall into the path of another car. Credit: Supplied/7NEWS
Tributes have flooded social media as friends and loved ones struggle to comprehend the loss.
Campbell was a first‑year apprentice carpenter with the Adelaide Training and Employment Centre, which paid tribute on Monday.
“His passing is a heartbreaking loss,” ATEC said.
“Campbell will be remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing and training alongside him. He will be greatly missed.”
His football club, Tea Tree Gully, said Campbell’s “infectious smile” and zest for life left a mark on everyone around him.
Club president Shaun Power said Campbell embodied the spirit of community.
“He embraced every moment with enthusiasm, courage and kindness,” Power said. “His mates were like brothers to him, and his love for football was unwavering. He inspired those around him through his passion, loyalty and determination.”
“Many of our players, coaches, volunteers and members have been impacted. This tragedy will be felt across our football family for a long time.”
Tea Tree Gully football club posted a tribute to Campbell on social media Credit: Supplied.
Trinity College, where Campbell graduated in 2025, said the school community was “deeply saddened” by his death.
“Campbell made a positive impact on those around him, demonstrating great leadership with warmth and affection for all,” Deputy Head Susan Hart‑Lamont said.
Hindley St was closed for several hours as major crash investigators examined the scene, reopening at 2.15am Sunday.
Treasurer Tom Koutsantonis said the government is working with council on ways to reduce pedestrian fatalities.
“This young man had his whole life ahead of him,” he said. “We’re looking at what more can be done to prevent tragedies like this.”
Police are urging anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage to contact them.
– with Grace Wallace.
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