Tragedy on Western Highway: Three Killed in Multi-Vehicle Crash Near Ararat
ARMSTRONG, VICTORIA — The tight-knit communities of Victoria and South Australia are in mourning following a devastating multi-vehicle crash on the Western Highway north of Ararat on Wednesday afternoon. The tragic collision, which involved five vehicles, claimed the lives of three individuals and left several others injured.
Authorities confirmed the identities of the deceased as a 49-year-old man from Lyndhurst, a 24-year-old woman from Clyde North, and a 65-year-old man from South Australia. Their lives were cut short in what police have described as a chaotic and catastrophic scene near the intersection of Thomas Road and the Western Highway at around 12:30 p.m.
The crash has sent shockwaves throughout the region, prompting an outpouring of grief and sorrow from friends, family, and community members. Police and emergency responders arrived at what Detective Senior Sergeant Paul Lineham described as “absolute carnage,” with twisted metal, crumpled vehicles, and scattered debris painting a grim picture of the collision’s impact.
Details of the Incident
Initial investigations indicate that five vehicles were involved, including a semi-trailer, a small truck, and three passenger vehicles. The exact sequence of events remains under investigation, but the result was a deadly pile-up on one of the region’s busiest highways.
Emergency services worked swiftly to extract victims and treat the injured. A 63-year-old man from Horsham, who was driving the semi-trailer, and an 83-year-old woman from Geelong were transported to Ballarat Hospital with minor injuries. Additionally, a 52-year-old man from Corio, driving a small truck, was taken to hospital as a precautionary measure.
Road Closure and Investigation
The Western Highway was closed in both directions and is expected to remain closed until at least midday Thursday as Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives continue to examine the scene. Forensic investigators have begun the painstaking work of piecing together the circumstances that led to this catastrophic accident.
Traffic diversions are in place, and authorities have urged drivers to avoid the area and exercise patience as the investigation unfolds and clean-up operations continue.
Community in Mourning
The loss of life has deeply affected the local communities of Lyndhurst, Clyde North, and across South Australia. The 24-year-old woman, described by friends as vibrant and full of life, had her future tragically taken from her. The Lyndhurst man, a father and devoted family member, and the South Australian man, remembered as a community-minded individual, are both being mourned by loved ones and neighbors alike.
Tributes have begun to pour in on social media, with many expressing disbelief, heartbreak, and extending thoughts and prayers to the families of the victims. Community leaders and local officials have offered condolences, acknowledging the deep impact this tragedy will have on the affected towns.
A Call for Caution
This horrific event serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the critical importance of road safety. As investigators work to determine whether speed, fatigue, or other factors played a role in the crash, police have urged all motorists to take extra care—especially on major highways where the risks are heightened.
Detective Senior Sergeant Lineham noted, “This isn’t just a news headline—these are lives lost and families forever changed. It is a scene that will stay with our officers for a long time.”
Support and Resources
Counseling services are being made available to first responders, witnesses, and community members affected by the incident. Local support centers are preparing to provide grief counseling and assistance to those grappling with this heartbreaking loss.
As the investigation continues and more details emerge, authorities are asking anyone who witnessed the crash or may have dashcam footage to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.