A serious car accident involving four vehicles near Hervey Bay, Queensland, has left two individuals in critical condition and eight others injured. The incident occurred just after 6pm on Maryborough Hervey Bay Road at Susan River, allegedly caused by a 14-year-old boy driving a white Mitsubishi Lancer. According to police reports, the Mitsubishi lost control, crossed into oncoming traffic, and collided with a white Suzuki Swift and an orange Kona. Additionally, a red Volkswagen Polo was struck from behind.
Injuries from the crash include an 18-year-old woman driving the Suzuki and a 16-year-old girl, a passenger in the Mitsubishi, both of whom were airlifted to Sunshine Coast University Hospital in critical condition. The 14-year-old boy, also a passenger in the Mitsubishi, was first taken to Hervey Bay Hospital before being transferred to Queensland Children’s Hospital. A total of seven other individuals were treated for injuries at Hervey Bay Hospital, which included the teenage Mitsubishi driver, a 58-year-old woman in the Suzuki, a 19-year-old in the Volkswagen, and a 40-year-old man driving the Kona along with his passengers—a 40-year-old woman and a toddler.
Police have confirmed that the young driver was not licensed to operate a vehicle. Inspector Paul Algie stated, “I can report that the driver of the first vehicle was 14 years old and did not have a driver’s license.” The Mitsubishi was not reported stolen.
Authorities are appealing for anyone with information or dashcam footage of the incident to come forward. This tragic event has left the community reeling, bringing back difficult memories of past accidents. As Inspector Algie emphasised, “When you get behind the wheel of a motor vehicle, you are carrying the same risk as a loaded gun. Cars are dangerous, and they can kill—even more so when driven by inexperienced individuals without licenses.” He has urged parents and caregivers to communicate the serious dangers of driving to their teenage children.
This unfortunate incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and responsible driving.