The Forensic Crash Unit is appealing for witnesses following a two-vehicle traffic crash that claimed the lives of three women at Gumlu, north of Bowen, on Sunday, June 30.
Initial investigations indicate at approximately 11.05am, a bus with 33 people on board was travelling north along the Bruce Highway when it crossed onto the wrong side of the road and struck a Landcruiser station wagon which was towing a caravan, travelling in the opposite direction.
Three people on the bus, including a 33-year-old German woman, a 21-year-old German woman, and a 56-year-old Townsville woman, died at the scene.
Several other bus passengers were also injured.
The bus driver, a 51-year-old Townsville man, was not physically injured.
The other driver, an 83-year-old Victorian man, was not physically injured.
Both drivers, their passengers, and multiple witnesses are continuing to assist police with the ongoing investigation, which remains in its infancy.
Police are appealing to nearby motorists, particularly the driver of a white utility, believed to be travelling behind the bus prior to the crash, to come forward.
Anyone with relevant vision is also urged to contact police.
Investigations are continuing.
Earlier: https://mypolice.qld.gov.au/news/2024/07/01/update-fatal-traffic-crash-gumlu/
https://mypolice.qld.gov.au/news/2024/06/30/serious-traffic-crash-gumlu-2/
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
The Queensland Police Service is committed to reducing number of lives lost on our roads.
Data shows that serious crashes can be significantly reduced when drivers recognise and avoid the 'Fatal Five' behaviours: speeding, drink and drug driving, not wearing seatbelts, fatigue and distraction.
Road safety is everyone's responsibility. Learn more about staying safe on Queensland roads: https://www.police.qld.gov.au/initiatives/fatal-five-staying-safe-roads
