The body of a young boy has been located in a vehicle that was swept away in flood waters near Parkes, in the state's Central West overnight.
Just before 11pm (Friday 23 September 2022), emergency services were called to McGrane Way at Tullamore, north-west of Parkes, following reports two vehicles had been swept into flood waters.
Inquiries revealed the first vehicle – a Toyota Hilux with five occupants – became submerged at the Genaren Creek crossing about 8pm (Friday 23 September 2022).
Four occupants of the Hilux – a 37-year-old man, a 28-year-old woman, along with a young boy and girl – got out and were able to cling to trees; however, a five-year-old boy became trapped in the car before it submerged.
About three hours later, a second vehicle entered the flooded crossing and submerged. The occupants managed to free themselves from the car before finding the occupants of the Hilux still clinging to trees.
They alerted emergency services and a multi-agency response was initiated with officers from Central West Police District, NSW SES, NSW Rural Fire Service and NSW Ambulance paramedics.
A boat was used to rescue the family; they were all taken to Dubbo Base Hospital for observation.
The occupants of the second vehicle weren't injured.
Police remained at the scene overnight and a search operation commenced today (Saturday 24 September 2022) to locate and retrieve the Hilux.
About 3.20pm, the boy's body was located in the submerged car by police divers.
The car has since been retrieved and an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident is underway.
A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.
Roads in the area remain closed due to flooding, and motorists are urged to check www.livetraffic.com prior to travelling.
