December 8, 2024

Carter Capner Law monitors accidents involving cars, motorcycles, trucks, busses, cyclists and trams throughout Australia to spotlight safety issues of concern to our clients and to demonstrate those situations in which they may have a right to an insurance or compensation recovery. We act for drivers, riders, passengers, pedestrians. Call today on 1300 529 529 or click here to reach Carter Capner Law. Click on Client Showcase to view our history of road accident compensation claims.

Incident Overview

A devastating crash between a B-double truck and a ute on the Bruce Highway in Marlborough, Queensland, has resulted in the death of a 23-year-old man and left several others with critical injuries. The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon, December 5, 2024, and prompted a major emergency response, including the deployment of two rescue helicopters.

Location and Time

The crash happened around 1:00 pm on the Bruce Highway in Marlborough, Queensland, approximately 100 kilometers north of Rockhampton.

Vehicles Involved

The crash involved two vehicles: a B-double truck and a ute.

Crash Description

A B-double truck and a ute collided on the Bruce Highway, causing both vehicles to roll over. The specific circumstances leading up to the crash are under investigation.

Injuries/Fatalities

Tragically, a 23-year-old man from Koongal, who was a passenger in the ute, died from his injuries on Saturday, December 7th, 2024. Three other people remain in critical condition:

  • A man in his 20s suffered life-threatening head, chest, and abdominal injuries.
  • A woman in her 50s sustained life-threatening abdominal and leg injuries.
  • The truck driver, a man in his 50s, also sustained life-threatening injuries.

Two other men in their 20s sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

Emergency Response

Multiple emergency service crews, including two rescue helicopters (CQ Rescue and CapRescue), responded to the scene. Firefighters used cutting equipment to free passengers from the ute.

Transport of Injured

Those with life-threatening and serious injuries were airlifted or transported to Rockhampton Hospital.

Road Closure and Diversion

The Bruce Highway was closed for several hours following the crash, but a diversion was put in place. Motorists were urged to avoid the area or expect significant delays.

Investigation

The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. Police are asking for any witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage to come forward.

Community Impact

This crash has caused significant disruption to traffic on the Bruce Highway and has deeply affected the community. It adds to the concerning road toll in Queensland, which has seen an increase in fatalities compared to the previous year.

Contributing Factors

The contributing factors to the crash are still under investigation. However, given the severity of the crash and the involvement of a heavy vehicle, factors such as speed, fatigue, driver distraction, and road conditions will likely be considered.