By Trend News Line 2024-07-01 09:15:49.
Investigation into Fatal Bus Crash Continues
Police are currently investigating a tragic incident that occurred near the Wilson Creek Rest Area on the Bruce Highway at Gumlu, south of Townsville. A long-distance Greyhound bus, packed with passengers, veered into oncoming traffic, resulting in a collision that claimed the lives of three women and left two men fighting for their lives.
Details of the Crash
Thirty-three passengers were on board the Greyhound coach, which was travelling north from Brisbane, when it collided with a four-wheel-drive vehicle towing a caravan. The impact caused the caravan to smash into the front of the bus, which ultimately came to rest across nearby train tracks.
Among the victims was a 56-year-old Townsville woman who was travelling back from Brisbane with her daughter. Tragically, she did not survive the crash. Two other women, one in her 20s and another in her 30s, also lost their lives in the collision.
Injuries and Hospitalizations
Several passengers sustained serious injuries and were rushed to Ayr and Townsville hospitals for treatment. One passenger had to be airlifted by helicopter for urgent medical attention. The bus driver and two elderly individuals in the four-wheel-drive vehicle managed to escape the crash with minor injuries.
The two men who are currently in critical condition at Townsville Hospital are aged 24 and 23, while two other men, aged 27 and 51, are listed as stable. Medical staff at the hospital were prepared for a mass casualty event and provided immediate care to those injured in the crash.
Response from Authorities and Officials
Greyhound Australia expressed deep sorrow over the incident, with company representatives stating they are “heartbroken” by the tragedy. Queensland Premier Steven Miles extended his sympathies to the families of the victims and emphasized the importance of investigating the cause of the crash.
It was noted that the Greyhound bus had departed Brisbane the day before the accident and had made several scheduled stops along the route to Townsville. This fatal crash on the Bruce Highway is the third major incident to occur in the area in the past two weeks.
Call for Improved Road Safety
Both government officials and opposition leaders have highlighted the need for improved road safety measures on the Bruce Highway. Opposition Leader David Crisafulli emphasized that the current standards are not up to par and called for immediate action to address the issue.
As investigations into the fatal bus crash continue, authorities are working to determine the exact cause of the incident and prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future..
– Photo shows devastation inside bus as police probe crash
– Photo shows devastation inside bus as police probe crash killed three.