Hayden Pepe: Driver face court after friend dies in crash

An 18-year-old who allegedly killed his friend when their car slammed into a tree just before Christmas won't be released on bail.

Hayden Pepe was allegedly behind the wheel of a silver Ford Sedan that crashed into a creek bed off Nelson Rd in Para Hills in Adelaide, two minutes after police tried pull him over on December 19.

He sustained critical head injuries and was rushed to hospital, while his passenger and friend 19-year-old Philip Frith died at the scene.

Mr Pepe did not make an application for bail when he appeared in court today.

He was arrested and charged last night with a series of offences including aggravated causing death by dangerous driving and breach of bail.

Mr Frith worked as a panel beater in Salisbury and has been remembered for his kind nature.

"He was just a really awesome person, very relaxed and really kind a, it’s just horrible it’s taken such a young precious life away," friend Stephanie Swarbrick said.

"It's heartbreaking, it really is heartbreaking that this has happened."

"He really got along with everyone, to be honest, I don't honestly see what's happened here," friend Ben Ford added.

Mr Pepe was in court today to support her son, along with other family members.

The teenager will return to court in April.