Fatal traffic crash, Gladstone

What happened

Incident Overview

Two people died following two separate traffic crashes in Gladstone on Wednesday, December 14, 2022. The first incident occurred at approximately 1:00pm when a truck left the Bruce Highway and crashed into a ditch at East End, claiming the life of the driver. A second collision between a truck and a car occurred at the same location shortly after, resulting in the death of a 21-year-old passenger.

Queensland Police and emergency services attended both scenes. Three other occupants of the car involved in the second crash were transported to hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

Location and Time

Both crashes occurred on the Bruce Highway at East End, Gladstone, Queensland. The first incident was reported at approximately 1:00pm on Wednesday afternoon, with the second crash occurring a short time later at the same location.

Vehicles Involved

First Crash – Vehicle 1

• Type: Truck
• Location on highway: Bruce Highway, East End
• Driver: Male in his 30s (deceased at scene)

Second Crash – Vehicle 1

• Type: Truck

Second Crash – Vehicle 2

• Type: Car
• Occupants: One passenger (21-year-old female from Red Hill, deceased at scene); three other occupants transported to hospital

Injuries / Fatalities

Fatalities

• Male driver of truck in first crash, aged in his 30s (deceased at scene)
• 21-year-old female passenger of car in second crash, Red Hill (deceased at scene)

Injuries

• Three occupants of car in second crash (transported to hospital with non-life threatening injuries)

Emergency Response

Queensland Police and emergency services attended both crash scenes at East End. Three occupants of the car involved in the second collision were transported to hospital with non-life threatening injuries. The Bruce Highway was attended by first responders who managed the scenes and provided emergency care to survivors.

Investigation

Queensland Police Forensic Crash Unit is investigating both incidents. Police are appealing for any witnesses or motorists with dashcam footage of the Bruce Highway at East End around the time of the crashes to come forward with information.

Appeal for Information

Queensland Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone with dashcam vision of the crashes to contact Policelink. Information can be provided online 24 hours a day using the suspicious activity form at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting, or report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au. Reference number: QP2202144571.