In a devastating incident, 10 people were killed when a wedding party bus crashed in Australia’s Hunterwine region, north of Sydney, police announced on Monday. A 58-year-old driver was arrested in connection with the tragic accident.
Television images showed the light-colored coach lying on its side after it overturned late Sunday night. The bus was taking wedding guests to a local pub. Emergency workers, dressed in high-visibility yellow vests, were at the scene, their vehicle lights illuminating the foggy night.
Acting Assistant Commissioner Tracey Chapman said the death toll was likely to rise, as 25 passengers were rushed to hospital, two of whom were airlifted from the crash site by helicopter. Chapman also said the bus had not yet been repaired, with the body still inside, with others likely trapped underneath.
Chapman clarified that according to information available to the police, no children were involved in the accident. The coach driver underwent mandatory tests at the hospital before being taken to the nearby police station in Sisnik. Chapman confirmed that the driver is in custody and that charges will be pending considering the life-threatening injuries that resulted from the motor vehicle collision.
The passengers had attended a wedding together and were likely on their way to their residence after the celebration. The police officer said that apparently no other vehicle was involved in the accident.
Prime Minister Anthony Albany offered his condolences, recognizing weddings as joyous occasions for friends and family. He described the loss of lives and injuries as a result of the accident as cruel, sad and unfair. Albany highlighted that people hire buses for weddings to ensure the safety of their guests, emphasizing the tragic nature of the incident. He expressed his wishes for the recovery of those hospitalized and thanked the emergency workers who arrived at the scene.
The area is currently being examined by specialist forensic police and the crash investigation unit. The Hunter region, known for its vineyards, kangaroos and native bushland, is a popular destination for tourists and group outings. New South Wales Premier Chris Munns expressed his deepest condolences to the families and loved ones affected by the tragedy, emphasizing the deep sorrow and shock felt by the community. New South Wales Police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
