Motorists are being advised to steer clear of the Harbour Bridge after a devastating head-on collision resulted in the deaths of two drivers and left a pregnant woman hospitalized. The accident, which occurred around 1:40 PM on Thursday, caused significant traffic disruptions, with vehicles backed up for kilometers.
According to police reports, a car traveling northbound veered into oncoming southbound traffic, triggering a series of collisions involving several other vehicles. Tragically, two male drivers, whose identities have yet to be disclosed, were pronounced dead at the scene. Another male driver and a pregnant woman were transported to Royal North Shore Hospital, where they are currently in stable condition.
The aftermath of the crash saw southbound lanes and three of the four northbound lanes on the Harbour Bridge closed for several hours. By approximately 4:20 PM, two lanes in both directions were reopened, but motorists continued to face significant delays. Transport for NSW Coordinator-General Howard Collins warned that traffic had built up for 12 kilometers, extending as far back as Rozelle. “There will be extensive delays, so please avoid the area,” he advised. “We’ll do all we can to make the evening trip as smooth as possible.”
The impact of the accident has been profound, with Collins indicating that delays could persist for several hours. In light of the circumstances, he urged commuters to consider using train or Metro services as an alternative to crossing the bridge.
As traffic ground to a halt, police established a crime scene, and officers from the Crash Investigations Unit arrived on-site later in the afternoon. “It is very sad for all those people involved,” stated NSW Police acting Superintendent Clayton McDonald. “Numerous members of certain families will be affected by this tragedy, and we’ll be working throughout the night with the ongoing investigation to inform the family members of those who passed away.”
The collision also affected public transport, with a bus driver present at the scene being unharmed and no passengers on board at the time of the crash. A NSW Ambulance helicopter was deployed and landed on the bridge shortly after the incident to assist with the situation.
In an unexpected turn, a motorcyclist who rode through the crash scene while emergency personnel were treating victims was apprehended by police. The rider, allegedly unlicensed and operating an unregistered motorcycle, was arrested and taken to Day Street police station, where he is expected to face several serious traffic offenses. “That gentleman drove towards police, who stood in front of him and were able to stop him,” McDonald recounted. Footage captured during the incident shows several officers restraining the rider during his arrest. The police officer involved sustained minor bruising and grazes during the encounter.
Eyewitness accounts and separate footage from the scene depict the aftermath of the crash, with at least two hatchbacks and an SUV significantly damaged and obstructing multiple lanes. Onlookers were seen assessing the wreckage, with one individual reaching into the driver’s side window of a white Hyundai hatchback that had sustained extensive front-end damage.
The incident has drawn attention not only for its tragic consequences but also for the ongoing investigation that follows such accidents. The authorities have emphasized the need for increased awareness regarding road safety and the importance of responsible driving.
As the evening commute approaches, motorists are urged to heed the warnings and seek alternate routes or modes of transport. Public transport options remain a viable alternative, allowing commuters to bypass the extensive delays on the Harbour Bridge. The incident has served as a somber reminder of the unpredictability of road traffic and the vital importance of adhering to traffic regulations to ensure the safety of all road users.
In the wake of this incident, the community mourns the loss of life while also reflecting on the ongoing challenges faced by emergency services and law enforcement in responding to such tragedies. As investigations continue, the focus will be on understanding the circumstances that led to this heartbreaking event and implementing measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Officials have indicated that updates will be provided as the situation develops, including any additional information regarding the identities of the deceased and the outcomes of the investigation. In the meantime, community members are encouraged to offer their support to those affected and to prioritize safety on the roads during this difficult time.
