Fatal Motorbike-Train Collision in Yenda, NSW – September 2, 2024

What happened

Incident Overview

On Monday, September 2, 2024, a fatal collision occurred between a motorbike and a freight train at a railway crossing on Twigg Road, Yenda, NSW. The incident claimed the life of 21-year-old Ethan Griffiths, a second-year apprentice mechanic, who was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The collision happened just before 5:30 PM local time at a passive railway crossing with no boom gates or flashing warning lights. Griffiths was returning from a 570-kilometre journey from Sydney when the crash occurred, only minutes from his home.

Location and Time

The collision occurred at a railway crossing on Twigg Road, Yenda, NSW, at approximately 5:30 PM on Monday, September 2, 2024. The crossing is a passive level crossing with no advanced warning signals, boom gates, or flashing lights.

Vehicles Involved

Vehicle 1

• Type: Motorbike
• Driver: 21-year-old Ethan Griffiths (deceased at scene)
• Direction: Travelling towards Yenda

Vehicle 2

• Type: Freight train
• Direction: Travelling across Twigg Road

Injuries / Fatalities

Fatalities

• 21-year-old Ethan Griffiths, motorbike driver (deceased at scene; catastrophic head trauma despite wearing helmet)

Injuries

• None reported.

Emergency Response

Emergency services attended the scene following the collision. NSW Police and the Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator (ONRSR) responded to the incident and secured the railway crossing.

Investigation

NSW Police and the Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator (ONRSR) are conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the collision. A report will be prepared for the coroner. The ONRSR has stated it is investigating the incident and working to improve rail safety across the country.

Griffiths’ family has raised concerns about the lack of safety features at the crossing, noting that blinding light from the setting sun may have contributed to the collision. The family is campaigning for safety upgrades at passive railway crossings, including the installation of boom gates, flashing lights, and warning systems.

Appeal for Information

NSW Police and the ONRSR are appealing for anyone with relevant information or footage of the incident to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit information online at crimestoppers.com.au.