An Australian man has died and a woman is fighting for her life following a tragic scooter collision in Bali. The accident occurred around 04:30 local time on Petitenget Street in North Kuta, when a vehicle struck the scooter being ridden by Bryce Alexander Black and Samantha Baillie, a couple from New South Wales. Mr. Black, a father, reportedly succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
Ms. Baillie, a mother of two, was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition. According to the law firm Bali Legals, she is facing life-threatening injuries, including a fractured skull and significant trauma to her body. A GoFundMe campaign has been initiated by her friend, Savannah-Leigh Homer, to assist with the mounting medical expenses.
Ms. Homer described the situation as the family enduring the “most devastating time” imaginable. “She has suffered significant injuries throughout her body, including a fractured skull with bleeding on the brain, multiple broken fingers with severe hand injuries, injuries to her pelvis, and extensive injuries to her feet,” Ms. Homer stated.
This trip was intended to be a positive milestone for Ms. Baillie, who had just arrived in Bali on March 2, 2024. “It was meant to be a happy milestone, her first time leaving the country, after recently starting a new chapter of her life,” Ms. Homer said. She and Ms. Baillie’s mother are currently in Bali, working to manage escalating hospital bills and coordinate her transport back to Australia.
As of 21:30 GMT on March 8, the fundraising effort has successfully raised $51,536. The financial burden has already begun to mount, with Ms. Homer noting that they have paid $6,000 for initial hospital care, only to be presented with an additional medical bill of $52,000 and more expected costs on the horizon. “This has only just happened, and the financial burden is overwhelming,” she added.
Social media has been flooded with tributes in honor of Mr. Black. One mourner expressed disbelief, stating, “I still can’t believe it’s happened to you.” Another shared, “Brother, hope you in rest in peace,” while a third offered, “Sending all the love in the world to Bryce and Sammy’s families.”
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Australia confirmed its involvement in providing consular support to the affected families. A spokesperson conveyed their condolences, stating, “We send our deepest condolences to the families at this difficult time.”
As the families navigate this tragic event, the community continues to rally in support, demonstrating the impact of their loss and the urgent need for assistance in the face of overwhelming circumstances.
