The heartbroken father of a teenager who died in an early morning road crash on the outskirts of Kirkcaldy has spoken of the family’s “nightmare”.
John Phimister said the death of 16-year-old Brian was the “worst day of my life”, adding: “The pain is so strong I just want to wake up from this nightmare.”
Brian, of Kirkcaldy, died at the scene after the BMW 3 Series car he was travelling in smashed into a tree on the A955 between Dysart and Coaltown of Wemyss at about 12.50am on Friday.
The former Balwearie High School and Adam Smith College student, who was a passenger, was pronounced dead at the scene, while the 18-year-old male driver suffered what police described as “serious” injuries and was taken to Victoria Hospital in Kirkcaldy for further treatment.
His injuries are not thought to be life-threatening.
In a moving tribute posted on Facebook, Brian’s father John, who is the owner of JP Removals and Storage in Kirkcaldy, said: “My boy has been stolen from me, my life torn apart. My baby boy killed before he could even take the wheel of a car and do what he loved.
“How am I going to live without you Brian Phimister? Love you so much. RIP son.”
No other vehicles were involved in the accident, which happened on a wooded stretch of road with many bends and that was reduced to a 40mph speed limit a number of years ago following safety concerns.
A Fife College spokesman said: “We were deeply saddened to wake up to the news. We can confirm that Brian Phimister was a student at our former Adam Smith College from 2012 to 2013, where he attended a part-time Work Skills Programme while still at high school.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to Brian’s family and friends.”
Buckhaven, Methil and Wemyss Villages councillor David Graham said: “My thoughts and sympathy go to the family of the young person who tragically lost his life in the early hours of this morning.”
Police have appealed for witnesses.
The road was closed until 4pm to allow emergency services to conduct the necessary inquiries.
Inspector Brenda Sinclair said: “Our officers are currently pursuing various lines of inquiry to establish the full circumstances surrounding this collision and I’d urge anyone who can help with our investigation to come forward.”