Fatal Crash Involving Two Trucks on Gore Highway at Brookstead – February 16, 2025

Incident Overview
A fatal traffic crash involving two trucks occurred on the Gore Highway at Brookstead late Sunday night, February 16, 2025. Emergency services were called to the scene following reports of a collision between two vehicles traveling in opposite directions. Tragically, one of the truck drivers succumbed to life-threatening injuries and was declared deceased at the scene. The driver of the second truck sustained non-life-threatening injuries and received medical treatment. The Forensic Crash Unit is now investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash, with authorities appealing for witnesses or dashcam footage to assist in their inquiry.

Location and Time
The crash occurred on the Gore Highway at Brookstead, Queensland. The incident took place at approximately 10:30 pm on Sunday, February 16, 2025 , prompting an immediate response from emergency services.

Vehicles Involved
The crash involved two trucks traveling in opposite directions. One of the trucks caught fire following the collision, exacerbating the severity of the incident. The intense flames likely contributed to the life-threatening injuries sustained by the driver, who tragically died at the scene. The second truck did not catch fire, and its driver escaped with non-life-threatening injuries.

Crash Description
Emergency services were alerted to the crash after receiving reports of a head-on collision between two trucks on the Gore Highway. Upon arrival, officers found one of the trucks engulfed in flames, with the driver fatally injured. Firefighters worked to extinguish the fire, while paramedics provided urgent medical attention to the driver of the second truck. Investigations indicate that the trucks collided while traveling in opposite directions, though the exact cause of the crash remains under investigation.

The Forensic Crash Unit attended the scene to examine evidence and determine contributing factors such as speed, road conditions, driver behavior, or mechanical issues. Authorities are particularly interested in understanding how the collision led to the fire and whether environmental conditions played a role.

Injuries/Fatalities
One truck driver tragically lost his life at the scene after sustaining life-threatening injuries in the crash. The other driver, who was operating the second truck, received treatment for non-life-threatening injuries and is recovering. No other individuals were involved in the incident.

Emergency Response
Emergency services, including police, paramedics, and firefighters, were dispatched to the scene shortly after 10:30 pm. Firefighters worked to extinguish the flames engulfing one of the trucks, while paramedics provided urgent medical care to the surviving driver. Police secured the area and coordinated efforts to manage traffic disruptions caused by the crash. The Forensic Crash Unit conducted a thorough examination of the scene to gather evidence and piece together the events leading up to the collision.

Investigation
The Forensic Crash Unit is conducting an ongoing investigation into the crash, focusing on potential contributing factors such as excessive speed, driver distraction, fatigue, or environmental conditions like weather or lighting. Investigators are also examining whether mechanical issues with either truck may have played a role in the collision.

Authorities are appealing to witnesses or anyone with relevant dashcam footage to come forward and assist with their inquiry. If you have information, contact Policelink by providing details via the online suspicious activity form at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting . Crime Stoppers also encourages the public to report information anonymously by calling 1800 333 000 or submitting a report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au .

Community Impact
The tragic loss of life has deeply affected the Brookstead community and surrounding areas, with residents expressing their condolences to the family of the deceased truck driver. The incident has raised concerns about road safety on the Gore Highway, particularly for truck drivers who frequently travel long distances and face challenging conditions.

The crash serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers faced by those working in the transport industry, as well as the importance of vigilance and responsible driving on major highways. Community members are calling for improved safety measures, such as better lighting, signage, and rest areas, to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Contributing Factors
While the investigation is ongoing, potential contributing factors could include excessive speed, driver fatigue, poor visibility, or environmental conditions such as weather or road surface. The condition of the vehicles involved and whether safety protocols were followed may also be considered as part of the inquiry.