Newcastle Police

Fatal Multi-Vehicle Crash Shuts Down M1 Pacific Motorway Near Wyong

today27 October 2024

Background

A fatal multi-vehicle collision has led to the closure of the M1 Pacific Motorway in both directions near Wyong on the New South Wales Central Coast, causing significant traffic disruptions and lengthy delays for motorists.

Incident Details

Just after 1:30 pm on Sunday, emergency services were called to the scene between Sparks Road and Wyong Road following reports of a collision involving four vehicles, a Mazda CX-5, a Honda Odyssey, a Hyundai Kona, and a truck in the southbound lanes. Shortly afterwards, a woman was struck by a car in the northbound lanes. She died at the scene, and her death is not being treated as suspicious. Her identity has not yet been formally released.

A woman from one of the southbound vehicles was transported to Gosford Hospital with minor injuries. The other drivers and passengers involved were uninjured but were treated at the scene for shock.

Officers from Tuggerah Lakes Police District have established a crime scene, and a report will be prepared for the Coroner. The circumstances surrounding the woman’s death and the initial collision are under investigation.

Traffic Impact and Diversions

The closure of the motorway has resulted in heavy congestion on both the M1 and surrounding roads, including the Pacific Highway, Tuggerah Straight, Wyong Road, Sparks Road, and Enterprise Drive. Motorists have reported being stuck in traffic for over two hours, with some areas described as “gridlocked” and “like a car park.”

Transport for NSW and emergency services are on-site managing the situation. Traffic diversions are in place as follows:

  • Northbound Diversion: Motorists are being directed off the M1 at the Wyong Road off-ramp, then onto the Pacific Highway and Sparks Road to rejoin the motorway.
  • Southbound Diversion: Southbound traffic is being diverted at Sparks Road, utilizing the Pacific Highway and Wyong Road to return to the M1.

Restrictions for Heavy Vehicles

Operators of Class 1, 2, and 3 vehicles traveling under a Notice or Permit are advised to:

  • Consult the relevant enforceable network map to confirm suitable approved alternate routes.
  • Not travel off the approved route listed in their permit unless an updated permit is obtained from the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR).

Semi-trailers over 42.5 tonnes and B-doubles over 50 tonnes are instructed to park until the motorway reopens.

Advice for Motorists

  • Avoid the Area: Motorists are urged to avoid the area entirely if possible.
  • Expect Delays: Those who must travel should expect significant delays exceeding 60 minutes.
  • Use Diversions: Follow the designated diversion routes and obey all signage and instructions from traffic control and emergency personnel.
  • Check Updates: Stay informed by checking the latest traffic updates on Live Traffic NSW or local news sources before commencing your journey.

Community and Social Media Reactions

Local residents and motorists have taken to social media to share their experiences and frustrations:

  • Traffic Conditions: Many have reported being stuck in traffic for extended periods. One motorist noted, “Been on the road for two hours; everywhere is bad. Traffic is gridlocked.”
  • Local Roads Affected: Streets such as Sparks Road, Enterprise Drive, and the Pacific Highway are heavily congested. A resident from Watanobbi said, “I’m staying put.”
  • Businesses Impacted: Employees at local businesses, including service stations and fast-food outlets at the twin service centres, are reportedly unable to leave due to the closures. Some workers have been told they will receive overtime pay due to extended shifts.
  • Community Condolences: Many expressed their sympathy for the victim and gratitude toward first responders. Comments included, “Condolences to the family of the woman who lost her life” and “Thank you to all emergency services who attended.”

Official Statements

  • NSW Police Force: “Emergency services are at the scene of a multi-vehicle crash on the Pacific Motorway at Wyong. All northbound and southbound lanes remain closed. Motorists are urged to avoid the area.”
  • Dan Repacholi MP: The local Member of Parliament posted on social media, advising motorists of the closures and diversion routes. He said there are heavy traffic conditions and urged drivers to allow extra travel time and follow the directions of emergency services.

Impact on Local Infrastructure

  • Public Transport: Bus services in the area may experience delays or detours due to road closures and increased traffic on alternate routes.
  • Emergency Services Access: The congestion may affect the response times of emergency vehicles attending other incidents in the area.

Safety Reminders

  • Stay Alert: Motorists are reminded to stay vigilant, especially in heavy traffic conditions.
  • Follow Instructions: Adhere to all instructions from emergency services and traffic controllers.
  • Plan Ahead: Consider delaying travel until conditions improve or plan alternative routes well in advance.

Ongoing Investigation

The cause of the initial collision and the subsequent pedestrian fatality are under active investigation. Police have not released further details pending the completion of their inquiries and notification of the woman’s next of kin.

Additional Information

  • Live Traffic Updates: For real-time information, visit Live Traffic NSW.
  • Contact Information: For non-urgent inquiries, contact the Tuggerah Lakes Police District. In emergencies, dial Triple Zero (000).
  • Heavy Vehicle Operators: For updated permits or route information, contact the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR).

Community Support

Local residents are encouraged to support one another during this time. Patience and understanding are appreciated as emergency services work to resolve the situation and reopen the motorway safely.

Need Help?

If you need someone to talk to, please call lifeline on 13 11 14.

Join the discussion and find out more info on Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/newy878/posts/pfbid038KQEQCTV7EQprwSd9b3FrEiMxRQPFmeGkNGm5TU2mVw5wr9bUA5E8zUmYESoYJAal

 

Join the discussion and find out more info on Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/newy878/posts/pfbid038KQEQCTV7EQprwSd9b3FrEiMxRQPFmeGkNGm5TU2mVw5wr9bUA5E8zUmYESoYJAal

Written by: Newy Staff


Newy 87.8 FM is an FM radio station established in 2014 targeting Classic Hits music enthusiasts across Newcastle and The Central Coast, Australia. The station plays 60s 70s and 80s music. The station can be streamed online via this website or smart phone apps such as Tunein. In 2024 we opened a local newsroom dedicated to publishing Newcastle News.

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