Explosion reported on Stockton Beach destroys 4WD ute, one person taken to hospital

Image of the burning vehicle. (Image: Jamie March)

[more details will be added to this article in the morning]

newy.com.au – Emergency crews were called to reports of an explosion on Stockton Beach, Salt Ash, where firefighters found a 4WD ute completely destroyed by fire.

Williamtown/Salt Ash Rural Fire Brigade said local brigades were called about 6.30pm followed by North Arm Cove RFS’s Cat 9 two-seat Land Cruiser at 6.50pm. Attending brigades also included Medowie RFS, Tilligerry RFS.

RFS said that once crews arrived they discovered a ute which had been destroyed by fire and began working to gain access to and extinguish the vehicle. North Arm Cove said its truck arrived after a 40-minute drive and was assisted by Williamtown/Salt Ash Rural Fire Brigade’s Cat 7 and Medowie Rural Fire Brigade’s pumper in getting water onto the beach to put out the 4WD.

North Arm Cove said there was “no other small 4×4 vehicle closer [to respond]”.

Crews said one person was airlifted to hospital with minor injuries after being attended to by paramedics.