A critical incident investigation has been launched after a motorcyclist died while police were responding to an unrelated heavy vehicle crash in New South Wales' central west.
Police were called to the Mitchell Highway near Larras Lee about 8:25am on Saturday following a single-vehicle heavy vehicle crash. Officers were waiting for the vehicle to be towed when, around 10:50am, two motorcyclists collided nearby, causing one to fall off his bike.
The fallen rider, believed to be in his 40s, was then struck by a third motorcycle. He died at the scene despite efforts from officers. The other two motorcyclists, both in their 60s, were taken to hospital.
Specialist officers from the Crash Investigation Unit are examining the scene, and the investigation is subject to an independent review by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission.
The Mitchell Highway between Cundimbul and Larras Lee remains closed in both directions.
