January 16, 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
Police have charged a woman following investigations into a fatal traffic crash on the Logan Motorway at Forest Lake on 26 December 2025. The incident occurred when a car struck a stationary vehicle stopped in the emergency bay, fatally injuring a man who was outside his vehicle at the time. After extensive investigation, the driver of the second vehicle has now been charged with multiple offences. The victim was declared deceased at the scene.

Location and Time

  • Crash Date: Friday, 26 December 2025 (around 11.55am)
  • Location: Logan Motorway (westbound lanes), Forest Lake, QLD

Vehicles Involved

  • Blue Kia Cerato — stopped in the emergency bay
  • White Kia Cerato — allegedly struck the stationary vehicle

Injuries/Fatalities

  • Fatalities:
    • 78-year-old Wilsonton man — driver and sole occupant of the blue Kia Cerato; outside the vehicle at the time; declared deceased at the scene.
  • Other Injuries:
    • 33-year-old Cleveland woman — driver of the white Kia Cerato; not physically injured.

Emergency Response

  • Queensland Police and Queensland Ambulance Service attended the Logan Motorway after reports of the crash.
  • The victim was declared deceased at the scene.
  • A forensic crash scene was established, causing traffic disruption.

Police Investigation
The Brisbane Forensic Crash Unit conducted extensive investigations into the fatal crash.

  • The 33-year-old Cleveland woman was arrested on 13 January 2026.
  • She has been charged with:
    • Dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death whilst adversely affected by an intoxicating substance
    • Driving while a relevant drug was present in blood
    • Possessing dangerous drugs (methylamphetamine)
    • Possessing utensils or pipes for use
  • The woman was remanded in custody and is due to reappear in Cleveland Magistrates Court on 12 February.

Community Impact
The crash and subsequent death caused significant disruption on the Logan Motorway during the Boxing Day period and has had a lasting impact on the Forest Lake and Wilsonton communities.

Appeal for Information
Police have reiterated their appeal for any remaining witnesses or relevant vision to come forward. Quote reference number QP2502367924.

  • Crime Stoppers QLD: Call 1800 333 000 or report online.
  • Policelink: Call 131 444 or submit information via the online suspicious activity form.