Two people have died following a devastating collision between a utility vehicle and a freight train at a rural level crossing in Victoria. The fatal incident occurred on Tuesday morning in the small town of Cressy, located approximately 140 kilometres south-west of Melbourne.
Scene of the Fatal Collision
The crash happened at the railway crossing on Reddies Road at about 10:15am. Emergency services were called to the scene, but tragically, the two occupants of the ute were pronounced dead before they could arrive. The force of the impact was so severe that the tray of the vehicle was torn completely off.
Confronting images from the site showed the wrecked ute lying on its side beside the train tracks. The driver and two staff members who were on board the freight train at the time were unharmed and did not sustain any injuries.
Ongoing Investigation and Road Closures
Victoria Police have confirmed that an investigation into the precise circumstances of the collision is ongoing. "The circumstances surrounding the collision are yet to be established and an investigation is ongoing," a police statement read.
In the aftermath of the crash, significant traffic disruptions ensued. The Hamilton Highway, a key route linking Hamilton to Geelong, was closed in both directions. Westbound traffic was diverted onto Reddies Road while emergency crews worked at the scene.
Appeal for Witnesses
Authorities are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or who may have dashcam footage or other relevant information to come forward. They are asked to contact Crime Stoppers to assist police with their inquiries.
This tragic event has once again highlighted the dangers present at rural level crossings, where road and rail networks intersect. The community of Cressy and the wider region are left mourning the sudden loss of life from this terrible accident.
