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Incident Overview
The fourth victim of the fatal head-on collision on Queensland’s Capricorn Highway on Sunday, 21 July 2025, has been formally identified as 32-year-old Corey Bietzel. The crash also claimed the lives of Shaun Ranger (28), and Ranger’s children Baylee (7) and Chandler (6). The group was returning home from a camping trip when the incident occurred.
Location and Time
- Crash Date: Sunday, 21 July 2025
- Crash Time: Just before 11:00am
- Location: Capricorn Highway, between Comet and Blackwater, QLD
Vehicles Involved
- Vehicle 1: Holden Commodore – travelling west toward Blackwater
- Vehicle 2: Toyota Hilux utility – travelling east
Injuries/Fatalities
- Deceased:
- Corey Bietzel, 32 – passenger in the Holden
- Shaun Ranger, 28 – driver of the Holden
- Baylee, 7 – passenger (child)
- Chandler, 6 – passenger (child)
- Injured:
- 28-year-old male (Toyota Hilux) – serious but stable condition at hospital
- 27-year-old male (Toyota Hilux) – airlifted to Brisbane in life-threatening condition
Crash Description
Initial reports indicate the Holden Commodore collided head-on with the oncoming Toyota Hilux. Both vehicles reportedly caught fire on impact. All four occupants of the Commodore were declared deceased at the scene. The two men in the ute sustained serious injuries and were transported to hospital.
Inspector Ben Wiltshire described the scene as involving “horrific” injuries and noted that the high-speed nature of the crash made the incident particularly devastating.
Community Impact
The crash has deeply affected the Central Highlands community. Victim Corey Bietzel was described by his cousin as a “loving son, grandson, a devoted father, brother, cousin and friend.” Ranger’s fiancée, Renee Carla, who was travelling behind in another vehicle, has been left a single mother to their two-year-old daughter, Saphora.
Traffic and Emergency Response
- Capricorn Hwy closed in both directions for several hours
- Responding agencies: QPS, Queensland Ambulance, Fire & Emergency Services
- RACQ Capricorn Rescue helicopter was dispatched but later stood down
Investigation
The Forensic Crash Unit is conducting a full investigation. While high speed is considered a contributing factor, police have yet to confirm the full circumstances surrounding the crash.
Safety Message
Inspector Wiltshire urged all motorists to exercise caution:
“This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of road safety. These lives were cut short far too soon.”
Police intend to increase traffic enforcement in the region following this tragedy.
Witnesses/Appeals
Anyone with dashcam footage or information related to the crash is urged to contact police.
Contact Details
- Policelink (QLD): 131 444
- Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000
- Online Reporting: www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting