Four killed, one fighting for life after horror crash in country NSW, major highway closed
The Easter holiday getaway has taken a tragic turn after four people were killed and another is fighting for his life following a two-car crash early today in country New South Wales.
Police were called at 6.45am following reports of a crash during heavy rain on the Barton Highway, near Casuarina Lane, at Jeir, about 30km south-east of Yass, just north of the ACT.
Officers found a Ford Ranger utility and a Mitsubishi Triton utility had collided after both were driving along the road. The crash was so severe that some people had to be cut out of the wreckage.
The female driver and male passenger of the Mitsubishi, and a male driver and male passenger in the Ford died at the scene.
They have not been formally identified.
Another male passenger in the Ford was critically injured and has been taken to Canberra Hospital in a serious condition.
The Barton Highway is closed in both directions, and is expected to remain shut for much of the day.
Southbound traffic on the Barton Highway is being diverted via Murrumbateman Road and Sutton Road to join the Federal Highway.
Northbound traffic on the Barton Highway is being diverted back to Canberra and should use the Federal Highway instead.
These diversions are suitable for all vehicles.
Motorists should allow plenty of extra travel time and follow the directions of emergency services and traffic crews on scene.
There is no forecast for when the highway will reopen.
For the latest traffic information, visit www.livetraffic.com or download the Live Traffic NSW app.
Police have begun inquiries.
Anyone with dashcam vision or further information is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
