UPDATE: A truck driver has been charged following a fatal crash on the Princes Highway near Bega that occurred at approximately 11:15 AM on August 7, 2023. Emergency services rushed to the scene at Frogs Hollow, about 13 kilometers south of Bega, where a devastating collision involving three vehicles left one man dead.
According to authorities, the crash involved a Toyota utility, a Mazda SUV, and a Kenworth prime mover. Tragically, the driver of the Toyota, a 54-year-old man, was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics but succumbed to his injuries at the scene. The 78-year-old driver of the Mazda and his 77-year-old female passenger suffered minor injuries and were transported to Bega Hospital for treatment.
The 21-year-old truck driver, who was unharmed, was arrested and underwent mandatory testing at the hospital. Following the incident, authorities established a crime scene, prompting an investigation by the Crash Investigation Unit into the circumstances of the crash.
Later, the truck driver was taken to Bega Police Station and charged with multiple offenses, including dangerous driving occasioning death, drive manner dangerous, and negligent driving occasioning death. He has been granted conditional bail and is scheduled to appear before Bega Local Court on September 23, 2023.
As of Friday morning, the Princes Highway has reopened to all traffic after being closed in both directions for the investigation. Police have lifted diversions, and traffic conditions have returned to normal in the area, providing relief for motorists previously affected by the closure.
This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for road safety measures as families and communities mourn the loss of life on our highways. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as more information becomes available.
