A man and a woman have died in a horrific collision between a freight train and a car at a railway crossing near the Victorian town of Cressy.
Tragic Collision at Ungated Crossing
Emergency services were called to the scene at the Cressy-Dunkeld Road level crossing, just outside Cressy, shortly after 3:30pm on Tuesday. The crossing is understood to be an ungated, passive crossing marked only by signs.
Victoria Police confirmed that a freight train travelling towards Geelong collided with a vehicle at the crossing. Despite the efforts of paramedics, both occupants of the car, a man and a woman, died at the scene. The train driver was not physically injured but is receiving support.
Police and Transport Authorities Investigate
Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are now working to piece together the exact circumstances that led to the fatal crash. A report will be prepared for the Coroner.
The incident caused significant disruption, with the rail line closed for several hours as police examined the scene. V/Line services on the Warrnambool line were replaced by coaches, and freight operations were also halted. The line has since reopened.
Authorities have not released the identities of the deceased, pending formal identification and notification of next of kin.
Community Shocked and Safety in Focus
The small community of Cressy, located about 40 kilometres west of Geelong, has been left shaken by the tragedy. The crash has renewed focus on the safety of passive railway crossings in regional areas.
This incident serves as a tragic reminder for all motorists to exercise extreme caution at level crossings, especially those without boom gates or flashing lights. Drivers must always stop, look, listen, and ensure it is completely safe before proceeding.
Anyone who witnessed the collision, has dashcam footage, or any other information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
