Truck driver death

By Jo Kennett

LOCAL RESIDENTS have been left traumatised after witnessing a truck accident near Brunswick Heads on Friday, March 24, which resulted in the death of the 26-year-old driver.

The accident happened at the Gulgan Road (Mullumbimby) off-ramp to the Pacific Motorway (northbound) at 6am.

Two witnesses who were first on the scene rushed to free the driver from the B-double truck but it was engulfed in flames following the impact and the driver died at the scene.

Police said he is yet to be formally identified.

One Tweed Shire resident The Weekly spoke to said she had nightmares after seeing the truck on fire and hearing what had happened, while others took to social media to share their shock and sadness at having witnessed the accident. Tweed District Rescue Squad’s Drew Carr and his fellow volunteers have attended countless accidents including fatalities.

He said anyone who witnessed or was a first responder at the accident needed to monitor their mental health.

“Look after yourself and most importantly engage with your friends and family,” he said.

“If witnesses are feeling sad or suffering from mental distress regarding an incident, you should get in contact with psychological support services through your GP or contact Lifeline or those types of services for assistance.

“There are all sorts of programs and facilities for people experiencing trauma.”

Police officers attached to Tweed-Byron Police District are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.

A crime scene was established and one northbound lane of the Pacific Motorway was closed for several hours, with motorists urged to avoid the area.

A report will be prepared for the Coroner.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.

If you are having difficulty coping you can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.