Tributes Pour In for Warkworth Teen Silas Sims After Tragic Car Crash

The community of Warkworth is mourning the untimely death of 16-year-old Silas Sims, a beloved teenager whose life was cut tragically short in a car crash on Saturday night. Silas, described as a 'much-loved' and 'born adventurer,' was remembered for his kindness, loyalty, and infectious spirit by friends, family, and community members.

Silas was driving along Leigh Rd when his vehicle collided with a power pole, resulting in his death. His parents, Sarah and Ben Sims, along with his brother Cassius, expressed their heartbreak, saying they would forever miss their son and brother. They described Silas as a young man with a 'charm of a prince' and a smile that 'would light up a thousand solar systems.'

“He was always the first to lend a hand, be there for his mates, and ‘enfold you in a hug’ if it was needed,” the family said. In lieu of flowers, they have asked for donations to the Matakana Volunteer Fire Brigade, and a service will be held at the Whangateau Reserve on Thursday.

Mahurangi College principal Tony Giles praised Silas as a 'much-loved young man with a wide friendship group' who was known for his kindness, loyalty, and integrity. He was also a standout rugby player and fisherman, with a love for the outdoors that defined his character.

“He brought laughter to those around him,” Giles said, adding that the school is deeply grieving the loss of a student whose unique spirit brought joy to so many.

Members of the Omaha Beach Surf Life Saving Club also paid tribute to Silas, calling him a “memorable young man” who treated others with a “deep, non-judgmental kindness” that was rare for his age.

Residents near the crash site have expressed shock over the tragedy, with one local saying the road was “usually safe” but that heavy rain that evening may have played a role. A local resident, whose son was the first to the scene, described how his son blocked the road with his truck to prevent further traffic before calling emergency services.

Police confirmed that emergency services arrived at the scene between Quintal and Takatū Rds shortly after 6pm. An investigation is ongoing, led by Detective Sergeant Wayne Gear of the Serious Crash Investigation Team.

Online tributes have poured in, with many expressing sorrow over the loss of a promising young man. One person wrote, “My heart breaks for his family,” while another praised Silas as a “wonderful young man and a fantastic rugby player—taken too soon.”

Silas’s legacy, however, will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. His friends and family hope that his memory will inspire others to live with kindness, courage, and an adventurous spirit.