A collision on the Murchison Highway in western Tasmania on Saturday resulted in two fatalities involving an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) and a utility vehicle. This incident was followed by a separate quad bike crash in Railton yesterday, which claimed the life of a 20-year-old man, marking the fourth road fatality in Tasmania for the current year.
Murchison Highway Collision Details
The collision occurred on Saturday at approximately 4:30 PM on the Murchison Highway, between Zeehan and Rosebery. The incident involved a red Honda ATV quad bike and a white Mitsubishi Triton ute.
A 15-year-old female from interstate and a 38-year-old male from Rosebery, both occupants of the quad bike, were pronounced deceased at the scene. Interstate tourists reportedly rendered assistance following the incident.
The driver of the Mitsubishi Triton ute, a 40-year-old male, did not sustain injuries. He is scheduled for mandatory drug and alcohol testing as part of standard procedures.
Investigation and Public Appeal
Tasmania Police are currently conducting inquiries into the cause of the crash. The Murchison Highway was reopened to traffic overnight after the incident.
Authorities have requested that anyone with information or dashcam footage related to the crash contact Tasmania Police at 131 444 or Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000. A report is being prepared for the coroner's office.
Railton Quad Bike Incident
In a separate incident yesterday, a 20-year-old man died following a quad bike crash on a remote forestry track in Railton. The incident took place at approximately 9:00 PM on a track situated between Tasmanite Road and Pump House Road.
The individual was operating a quad bike with a group of companions when the vehicle reportedly left the track and collided with a tree stump. Despite medical assistance rendered at the scene, the man could not be resuscitated. Crash investigators are examining the circumstances, and a report will be prepared for the coroner.
Broader Context and Police Advice
These incidents contribute to the broader statistics of road fatalities in Tasmania. The death in Railton marks the fourth road fatality in Tasmania for the current year, following the two fatalities on the Murchison Highway and the death of a 25-year-old man in a vehicle collision at Legana.
Tasmania Police Acting Inspector Martin Parker characterized the Railton death as the third serious off-road vehicle crash in recent weeks. Police advise all riders to operate vehicles with increased caution, emphasizing the importance of using helmets and protective gear, maintaining safe speeds, and avoiding hazardous terrain.