At approximately 7.30am this morning, 1 December, a fatal head-on collision occurred on the Bass Highway at Cowrie Point, 460 metres west from Port Latta.

Police believe a light blue Toyota Camry sedan was travelling east when the vehicle crossed into the oncoming lane and into the path of a west bound Kenworth prime mover towing an unladen B-Double combination.

As a result of the collision, the Toyota spun approximately 180 degrees and the rear right corner of the vehicle came to rest atop an Armco railing. The driver, a 24 year old Milabena man was cut from the wreckage by emergency personnel. Paramedics worked on him at the scene and en-route to the North West Regional Hospital but he was pronounced deceased later in the afternoon.

The impact to the Kenworth caused the right side fuel tank to rupture. The vehicle and combination continued west for 85 meters before it jack-knifed across the highway. The prime mover caught fire and was completely destroyed. The driver, a 39 year old Burnie man escaped the cabin of the truck without injury.

The Bass Highway was closed until approximately 3.45pm whilst investigations were carried out and the vehicles were removed. Vehicles were diverted through Loosemores Road for the duration.

Police from Smithton, Forensic Services, Marine and Accident Investigation attended the scene along with local SES and fire brigades.

Police would like to speak to anyone who may have observed either of the vehicles prior to the collision. Please contact the Accident Investigation Section at the Burnie Police Station.

Police would also remind the motoring public to drive with care through the area due to the large amount of diesel spilt on the roadway throughout the scene.

Tasmania Police Media
(03) 6230 2296