At approximately 1:45am Monday 30^th January 2023, emergency services were notified of a serious motor vehicle crash on the Batman Highway at Rowella.

It was found that a White Ford Ranger utility with five occupants and towing a horse float with four horses had left the road and impacted with a tree stump.

The crash was attended to by Exeter, George Town and Launceston police. Members of Ambulance Tasmania, the Tasmania Fire Service and the State Emergency Service also attended the crash.

The five occupants of the car were found to range in age from 14 to 20 years old. All occupants were conveyed by road to the Launceston General Hospital.

An 18 year old passenger of the utility was found to have serious injuries and is to be transported by air ambulance to Melbourne for further treatment. A 17 year old passenger is to be transported to the Royal Hobart Hospital for further treatment.

Unfortunately, two of the horses died immediately following the crash. Another two horses were euthanised.

Tasmania police crash investigators and forensic staff also attended the crash scene. Investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing.

Anyone who saw the Ford Ranger and horse float prior to the crash or has information as to the crash is asked to contact Northern Crash Investigation Services via 131 444. Information can be provided to Crimestoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au.