At approximately 0810am, Saturday 11 June 2011, Police were contacted regarding a crash on the Bass Highway, 14 km west of Launceston, approximately 1.1 km east of Illawarra Road overpass. 

The crash has involved an east-bound 1986 blue Toyota Corona station wagon, an east-bound white Mitsubishi Fuso light delivery truck and a west-bound white Volvo prime mover with a single pantech trailer.

The crash appears to have occurred when the Toyota has attempted to pass the Mitsubishi and has moved into the path of the oncoming Volvo truck.  The Toyota has contacted the rear of the Mitsubishi when trying to re-enter the east bound lane, causing the Toyota and Mitsubishi to lose control, the Toyota making contact with the front of the Volvo prime mover.

The Toyota has slid across to the northern side of the road way, the male driver, and only occupant, sustaining fatal injuries.  The Mitsubishi has crossed to the incorrect side of the road way, rolling onto the driver side and sliding along the grassed drainage ditch prior to stopping on its wheels. 

The male drivers of the Mitsubishi and Volvo received minor injuries only.

Police were also alerted to a crash, moments prior to the fatal crash, approximately 500 metres west of the Illawarra Road overpass, involving the blue Toyota Corona station wagon and a dark blue Mitsubishi Magna sedan. 

Enquires are continuing.

Could any persons who may have sighted the east-bound Toyota Corona station wagon on the Bass Highway on Saturday 11 June 2011, please contact Northern District Traffic, Crash Investigation, Launceston, 6336 3936.

Tasmania Police Media
(03) 6230 2296