The early morning of Friday, February 13, 2025, was marred by a tragic and devastating three-vehicle collision on a major highway in New South Wales. The incident occurred at approximately 6:10 a.m. near the Princes Highway at Waterfall, a southern suburb of Sydney. A man, believed to be in his 60s, lost his life when his Mitsubishi Outlander was pushed off the road, down an embankment, and onto railway tracks. The vehicle then rolled onto its roof, leaving the man with fatal injuries. This horrific crash not only claimed a life but also left six others injured, sending shockwaves through the community and prompting a significant emergency response.
The crash involved three vehicles, and the impact was severe enough to cause widespread damage and immediate concern for the safety of all those involved. In addition to the man who tragically died, six other individuals were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. Two of the injured were taken to Liverpool Hospital, two to St George Hospital, and another two to Wollongong Hospital. The ages of the injured ranged from 18 to the mid-30s, and while their conditions were serious, their exact statuses were not immediately disclosed. The crash also caused significant disruption to traffic, with southbound lanes of the highway being closed as emergency services worked tirelessly to assist the victims and investigate the cause of the collision.
The stretch of highway where the crash occurred is no stranger to danger, according to a local resident who spoke to 7NEWS. The woman, who wished to remain anonymous, described the area as “tricky” and expressed her concerns about the speed at which drivers often pass through the 80km/h zone. “A lot of cars are already doing 100km/h when they come through here,” she said, adding that she hoped the tragedy would serve as a stark reminder for drivers to be more cautious and aware on the roads. Her words echoed the sentiments of many in the community, who are grappling with the loss of life and the broader implications of such a preventable tragedy.
Motorists traveling southbound faced significant delays as authorities closed the relevant lanes to allow emergency services to tend to the scene. Drivers heading toward Wollongong were advised to seek alternative routes, with Live Traffic NSW suggesting detours via Heathcote Road, the M5 Motorway, the Hume Motorway, and Picton Road. For lighter vehicles, an alternative route through the Royal National Park was also recommended. The closure caused chaos during the morning commute, but officials emphasized the importance of safety above all else, urging drivers to exercise patience and plan their journeys carefully.
As investigations into the crash continue, police are appealing for anyone with dashcam footage or other evidence to come forward. Sutherland Police Station has been identified as the point of contact for individuals who may have information that could aid in piecing together the events leading up to the collision. The authorities are determined to understand the circumstances surrounding this tragedy, and the public’s assistance is crucial in ensuring that justice is served and that lessons are learned to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The crash serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of road safety. While the injured victims and their families face a long and challenging road to recovery, the community is left to mourn the loss of a man whose life was cut short in an instant. The incident has sparked widespread concern about the dangers of speeding and the need for heightened vigilance on our roads. As the investigation unfolds, the hope is that this tragedy will not be in vain and that it will inspire a renewed commitment to safe driving practices across New South Wales and beyond.
