Six people sustained minor injuries and one driver remains unaccounted for following a multi-vehicle collision involving seven semi-trailers on the Hume Highway in New South Wales. The incident occurred just after 5 a.m. on Tuesday in Breadalbane, south-west of Goulburn.
The collision initially involved two trucks, which then careered into five others parked at a roadside rest stop, triggering a significant explosion and fire. Fire and Rescue NSW reported that one of the trucks was carrying eight tonnes of butane cans, while others were loaded with resin, memory foam, and alcohol, which contributed to the intensity of the blaze.
A 300-meter exclusion zone was established around the crash site, with over 30 firefighters responding to the incident. The Hume Highway was closed in both directions between Gunning and Cullerin Road, and authorities advised motorists to avoid the area and anticipate significant delays, as the highway was expected to remain closed for an extended period.
Two of the truck drivers involved have been transported to Goulburn Base Hospital for mandatory testing. The exact cause of the initial collision is currently under investigation.