Update: Four Killed in Minivan Crash Near Cobram Identified as Possible Farm Workers – Muckatah, VIC – 15 December 2025

What happened

Incident Overview

Police say four people killed in a minivan crash at Muckatah in northern Victoria may have been farm workers from the local area. The single-vehicle crash occurred on Chapel Road about 10 kilometres south of Cobram at around 5pm on Monday, 15 December. A white Toyota HiAce minivan carrying nine occupants struck a tree on a narrow rural road. Four passengers died at the scene, while five others were taken to hospital with serious injuries. The Victoria Police Major Collision Investigation Unit is investigating.

• Crash Date: Monday, 15 December 2025 (around 5:00pm)
• Location: Chapel Road, Muckatah, near Cobram, VIC

• White Toyota HiAce minivan — single-vehicle crash into a tree

• Fatalities:
  • 17-year-old boy — passenger; deceased at the scene.
  • 34-year-old man — passenger; deceased at the scene.
  • 51-year-old woman — passenger; deceased at the scene.
  • 45-year-old woman — passenger; deceased at the scene.
• Critical/Serious Injuries:
  • 18-year-old woman — hospitalised with serious injuries.
  • Three 16-year-old girls — hospitalised with serious injuries.
  • 39-year-old man — believed to be the driver; hospitalised in a serious condition and remains under police guard.

The crash has devastated the Cobram, Muckatah and Katamatite communities in the lead-up to Christmas. Local residents and officials noted safety concerns on Chapel Road, a narrow rural route used by farm workers, campers, caravans and trucks. Community leaders described the loss of life as “senseless” and deeply distressing.

Emergency Response

• Emergency services attended Chapel Road following reports of the minivan striking a tree.
• Four passengers were declared deceased at the scene.
• Five injured occupants were transported to various hospitals for treatment.

Investigation

Victoria Police say all nine occupants were from overseas and were working and living in the Greater Shepparton area.

• The relationship between the occupants is still being determined.
• Investigators are examining vehicle movements and road conditions on Chapel Road.
• The Major Collision Investigation Unit is leading the inquiry.

Appeal for Information

Police are urging anyone with information, CCTV or dashcam footage from Chapel Road around the time of the crash to come forward.

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