South Auckland, August 26, 2024 — A tragic crash on State Highway 1 (SH1) near Bombay in South Auckland has resulted in the deaths of three people and left several others injured. The incident, which occurred on Monday afternoon, involved a truck, a van, and at least two other vehicles. The collision has led to the closure of both northbound and southbound lanes between Bombay and Ramarama, causing significant traffic disruptions.
The Incident
The crash was reported to police at approximately 1:47 PM. Preliminary reports suggest that a southbound truck may have suffered a blown tire, causing it to lose control and cross the wire median barrier into oncoming traffic. The truck collided with a van traveling northbound, leading to the fatal crash. All three deceased individuals were in the van, which was severely damaged in the collision.
Emergency services responded quickly to the scene, deploying ten vehicles, including a helicopter. St John Ambulance treated eight people with varying degrees of injuries. Among the injured, one person was in critical condition, three were moderately injured, and four sustained minor injuries. The injured were transported to Auckland City Hospital and Middlemore Hospital.
Eyewitness Accounts and Investigation
Tamati Cassin, a motorist who arrived at the scene shortly after the crash, described the chaotic and tragic aftermath. “I saw three bodies in the van and several others injured. People were trying to help, but it was just chaos,” Cassin said. “The truck was badly damaged, and the wire median barrier was wrapped around its front wheels.”
Inspector Tony Wakelin, Counties Manukau Road Policing Manager, expressed deep sympathy for those affected by the accident. “This many fatalities at once is shocking, and our thoughts go out to all those affected. Incidents like this are hard on everyone involved, and we are making sure there is support in place for those involved, their families, and our staff who have attended the scene,” he said.
The Serious Crash Unit is investigating the cause of the crash. While early reports suggest that the truck’s tire failure may have been a factor, a thorough investigation is required to determine the exact sequence of events.
Traffic Disruptions and Road Closures
Due to the extensive damage to the wire rope barrier system and the severity of the crash, SH1 between Bombay and Ramarama was closed in both directions. The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) has implemented diversions for motorists. Southbound traffic is being rerouted via Ararimu Road, while northbound traffic is diverted at Mill Road, Bombay. NZTA officials have indicated that the highway could remain closed until 5 AM on Tuesday, August 27.
A Tragic Reminder
This fatal crash serves as a stark reminder of the dangers present on New Zealand’s highways, particularly on high-speed routes like SH1. The loss of three lives in such a sudden and tragic manner has left a deep impact on the community.
As the investigation continues and further details emerge, our thoughts are with the families and friends of those who lost their lives in this horrific accident.
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
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