Emergency services in New South Wales have responded to two serious crashes in the early hours of Thursday morning, resulting in significant injuries and major road closures.
Cyclist Airlifted After Collision in Russell Vale
A 21-year-old woman has been flown to hospital with serious head and facial injuries following a collision between a bicycle and a car in Russell Vale. The incident occurred on Memorial Drive just before 4am on Thursday, January 8, 2026.
Emergency crews, including paramedics and a rescue helicopter, rushed to the scene between Park Road and Bellambi Lane. The woman received treatment at the roadside before being airlifted to St George Hospital for further care.
As a result of the crash, Memorial Drive remains closed in both directions between Park Road and Bellambi Lane, with motorists advised to avoid the area and seek alternative routes.
Two-Truck Crash Closes Hume Motorway at Berrima
In a separate and serious incident, the Hume Motorway is closed northbound at Berrima after a collision involving two trucks. The crash also happened just before 4am on Thursday.
One of the drivers, a man in his 50s, sustained serious head and chest injuries. A rescue helicopter was again deployed, with paramedics treating the man before he was flown to Liverpool Hospital.
The second driver was not injured. The crash has left a large amount of fluid and debris across the roadway, and authorities expect the closure to be lengthy. The motorway is shut between Medway and Aylmerton.
Diversions are in place for light vehicles via the Old Hume Highway to rejoin at Aylmerton. Heavy vehicle operators are being told to find a safe place to park until the road reopens.
Police Continue Investigation into Picton Road Pile-Up
Meanwhile, police are still investigating the cause of a major six-vehicle crash on Picton Road at Cataract on Wednesday. The incident occurred at 11.55am when a four-wheel-drive allegedly veered onto the wrong side of the road, causing a truck to take evasive action.
Thirteen people were injured in the multi-vehicle pile-up, with six requiring hospital treatment. The area was declared a crime scene, and forensic police officers were called in to examine the wreckage. Picton Road reopened to traffic at 5.30pm on Wednesday.
Authorities are urging all motorists to drive with extra caution, particularly during the early morning hours and holiday period, and to check live traffic updates for the latest information on road closures.
