January 23, 2026

Carter Capner Law monitors accidents involving cars, motorcycles, trucks, busses, cyclists and trams throughout Australia to spotlight safety issues of concern to our clients and to demonstrate those situations in which they may have a right to an insurance or compensation recovery. We act for drivers, riders, passengers, pedestrians. Call today on 1300 529 529 or click here to reach Carter Capner Law. Click on Client Showcase to view our history of road accident compensation claims.

Incident Overview
Two people have died following a serious overnight collision between a car and a semi-trailer on the Newell Highway south of Narrabri in northern New South Wales. Police say the vehicles collided and burst into flames shortly after 1am, with both drivers killed at the scene. The crash triggered a grass and forest fire, which has since been extinguished. A major investigation is underway.

Location and Time

  • Crash Date: Friday, 23 January 2026 (around 1:15am)
  • Location: Newell Highway, south of Narrabri, NSW

Vehicles Involved

  • Passenger vehicle — destroyed by fire following the collision
  • Semi-trailer truck — interstate freight vehicle, destroyed by fire

Injuries/Fatalities

  • Fatalities:
    • Car driver — identity not yet formally established; died at the scene.
    • Truck driver — identity not yet formally established; died at the scene.

Emergency Response

  • Emergency services were called to the Newell Highway about 1:15am.
  • Both vehicles were fully engulfed in flames on arrival.
  • The fire spread to nearby bushland before being brought under control.
  • A crime scene was established and specialist equipment deployed.

“Police are still on scene, and the scene is very much still live.” — Superintendent David Cooper, Oxley Police District

Police Investigation
NSW Police are investigating the cause of the fatal crash.

  • Major crash investigators are examining the collision site.
  • The section of highway is a straight 110km/h zone.
  • Formal identification of both deceased drivers is ongoing.
  • A report will be prepared for the Coroner.

Community Impact
All lanes of the Newell Highway were closed for much of the morning, with traffic diverted via the Kamilaroi and Oxley highways. The crash has disrupted freight and commuter traffic on one of NSW’s major north–south routes.

Appeal for Information
Police are urging anyone with information about the crash to come forward.

  • Crime Stoppers NSW: Call 1800 333 000 or report online.