Two people have died and four others have been rushed to hospital following a horrific multi-vehicle crash on the NSW Mid North Coast. The tragic incident occurred on April 7, 2025, at approximately 9:50 AM on the M1 Motorway near Nabiac, about 30 kilometers south of Taree.
Emergency services responded to reports of the crash involving a Nissan SUV, a Toyota LandCruiser towing a caravan, and a prime mover. Upon arrival, police found that the Nissan SUV had collided with the Toyota LandCruiser before crashing into the prime mover.
Sadly, two occupants of the Nissan SUV were pronounced dead at the scene. Their identities have not yet been formally confirmed. Meanwhile, the driver of the Toyota LandCruiser, a 42-year-old man, along with a 43-year-old woman and two children aged eight and nine, were treated by paramedics at the scene before being transported to John Hunter Hospital for further treatment.
The driver of the prime mover escaped uninjured but was taken to Manning Base Hospital for mandatory testing. Authorities have established a crime scene and launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Local MP Tanya Thompson expressed her condolences on social media, describing the incident as "heartbreaking" and extending her thoughts to the families, friends, and first responders affected by the tragedy. "Sadly, there have been multiple fatalities confirmed, and other occupants have been transported to hospital," she noted.
In a peculiar twist, a black chihuahua that was traveling in the Nissan SUV was found uninjured and is believed to still be in the area. Police are urging anyone who may have seen the dog, which answers to the name Armani, to help locate it.
The crash has resulted in the partial closure of the Pacific Highway near Crokers Road in Nabiac, with traffic conditions reported as moderate. LiveTraffic NSW has advised motorists to avoid the area and seek alternative routes as the investigation continues.
Manning-Great Lakes Police are asking for assistance from the public, particularly anyone who may have dashcam footage or information regarding the incident. Witnesses are encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers present on our roads and the importance of safe driving practices. As investigations unfold, the community is left to grapple with the loss of life and the impact of such accidents.
The M1 Motorway, a major route for travelers in the region, has seen its share of accidents over the years. However, incidents of this magnitude, resulting in fatalities, underscore the need for continuous efforts to enhance road safety.
As the families of the deceased and injured begin to process this tragedy, support from the community and local authorities will be essential. Mental health resources and counseling services may be necessary to assist those affected by the emotional fallout of the crash.
Authorities will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available. The investigation aims to determine the cause of the crash and whether any factors contributed to the collision.
In light of this incident, local leaders are expected to advocate for increased safety measures on the Pacific Highway, particularly in high-traffic areas prone to accidents. Discussions around improving signage, road conditions, and driver awareness campaigns may gain traction in the aftermath of this tragic event.
As the community mourns, it is crucial to remember the lives lost and the families left behind. The ripple effect of such tragedies extends beyond the immediate victims, impacting friends, neighbors, and the broader community.
Moving forward, the focus will be on healing and preventing future incidents. Local authorities will work closely with law enforcement to ensure that the roads are safer for everyone.
In the meantime, the search for Armani continues, showcasing the community's compassion and willingness to help in difficult times. The bond between pets and their owners is profound, and the hope is that Armani will be reunited with its family soon.
