A seven-lorry pile-up on the Hume Highway in New South Wales, Australia, triggered a massive fireball explosion early Tuesday morning, leaving one person unaccounted for and six others injured. The crash occurred near Breadalbane, a town in the Southern Tablelands region, just after 5 a.m. local time on June 30, 2026.
Collision and Explosion Details
Two lorries collided on the highway and subsequently crashed into five others parked at a roadside rest stop. The cargo of the lorries fueled the explosion and ensuing fire. A spokesperson for NSW Fire and Rescue confirmed that one truck was carrying eight tonnes of butane cans, while others contained resin, memory foam, and alcohol. Forty firefighters were deployed to combat the blaze.
Casualties and Response
NSW Ambulance confirmed that six people received treatment at the scene for minor injuries, and two drivers were transported to Goulburn Hospital for mandatory testing. One person remains missing. Rural Fire Service Southern Tablelands Superintendent Krystaal Hinds stated that over a dozen fire trucks were summoned from surrounding regions. Local crews arrived within 20 minutes of the call, given the remote location.
Highway Closure and Traffic Diversions
The Hume Highway, a major route connecting Sydney and Melbourne, remains closed in both directions between Gunning and Cullerin Road in Breadalbane. Transport for NSW spokesman John Pearson confirmed that the blaze was extinguished by around 11 a.m. and smoke had cleared. However, he warned that traffic delays would persist, with trucks heading north expected to be held up significantly. Motorists are urged to avoid the area and allow an extra hour of travel time using diversions via Canberra on the Federal and Barton highways.
Investigation Underway
A crime scene has been established, and the Crash Investigation Unit is on site. The investigation is expected to take considerable time. Pearson advised drivers to continue allowing plenty of extra travel time.
