A teenage pedestrian has tragically lost his life after a collision with a truck on the Hume Highway in the Southern Highlands early this morning.
Details of the Incident
The fatal crash occurred at approximately 5:10 am on Friday, February 13, at the intersection of the Hume Highway and Golden Vale Road near Berrima. According to a NSW Police spokesperson, the man, believed to be in his late teens, was allegedly struck by a truck as he entered the roadway.
Emergency services, including paramedics, responded swiftly to the scene. Despite their efforts to treat the pedestrian, he could not be revived and was pronounced dead at the location. Police have not yet formally identified the victim, and investigations are ongoing.
Impact on Traffic and Road Closures
The collision has resulted in significant disruptions to traffic in the area. The Hume Highway is currently closed southbound between Berrima and Sutton Forest. Motorists are being diverted through the Medway Road exit towards Berrima, then onto Taylor Avenue, Berrima Road, and the Illawarra Highway to rejoin the Hume Highway.
Transport for NSW has advised drivers to allow extra travel time and follow directions from emergency services and traffic crews. The closure is expected to remain in place as police conduct a forensic examination of the crime scene established at the location.
Driver and Investigation Updates
The driver of the truck involved in the incident, a 48-year-old man, was not injured in the crash. He has been taken to Bowral Hospital for mandatory alcohol and drug testing as part of standard police procedures.
Authorities are urging anyone with information or dashcam footage related to the incident to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. The police investigation aims to determine the exact circumstances leading to this tragic event.
This incident highlights the ongoing concerns about pedestrian safety on major highways and serves as a somber reminder for all road users to exercise caution, especially in early morning hours when visibility may be reduced.
