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Incident Overview
A Greyhound bus carrying approximately 40 passengers collided with the rear of a B-double truck on the Hume Highway at Kyeamba, NSW, leading to the death of the bus driver and injuries to 13 passengers. The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday morning, December 21, 2024, and is being investigated by police.
Location and Time
The crash happened around 3:35 am on the northbound lanes of the Hume Highway at Kyeamba, approximately 50 kilometers south of Wagga Wagga, NSW. The specific location is described as a steep incline known as Kyeamba Gap.
Vehicles Involved
The crash involved two vehicles: a Greyhound bus and a B-double truck.
Crash Description
The Greyhound bus was traveling northbound on the Hume Highway when it collided with the rear of the B-double truck, which was also traveling northbound. It is believed that the truck may have slowed down as it ascended the steep incline, and investigators are examining whether this change in speed contributed to the crash. The impact of the collision caused significant damage to the front of the bus.
Injuries/Fatalities
The bus driver, believed to be a 32-year-old man from Victoria, died at the scene. Thirteen passengers on the bus sustained injuries, including broken bones and lacerations. One male passenger suffered a broken leg, which was considered the most serious injury among the passengers.
Emergency Response
Emergency services, including police and paramedics, attended the scene. Despite their efforts, the bus driver could not be saved. The injured passengers were treated at the scene and transported to hospitals for further medical attention.
Investigation
NSW Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash, including whether fatigue played a role and whether the bus driver saw the truck ahead before the collision.
Passenger Accounts
One passenger, Lily Harper, who was sleeping when the crash occurred, described being jolted awake by the impact. She sustained a fractured nose, cuts, and bruises. Other passengers have spoken about the chaotic scene and the fear of being hit by another vehicle while waiting for emergency services to arrive.
Community Impact
This tragic incident has shocked and saddened the community, particularly as it occurred during the holiday season when many people are traveling to visit loved ones. The crash has also prompted renewed calls for road safety awareness, especially regarding driver fatigue and the importance of being alert and aware of surroundings while driving.
Contributing Factors
The contributing factors to the crash are still under investigation. However, fatigue is being considered as a possible factor, given the early morning timing of the incident. The steep incline of the road and the possibility that the truck may have slowed down are also being examined as potential contributing factors.