A devastating multi-truck crash and fire has forced the closure of the Hume Highway near Breadalbane, south of Goulburn, New South Wales, after a truck collided with several stationary heavy vehicles at a rest area, triggering a massive blaze. Emergency crews remain on the scene as authorities respond to one of the region’s most serious highway incidents in recent months.
According to New South Wales Police and emergency services, the collision occurred early Tuesday morning when a truck crashed into multiple parked trucks at a highway rest stop. The impact sparked an intense fire that quickly engulfed several heavy vehicles, destroying at least five trucks. The blaze was fueled by hazardous cargo, including butane canisters, resin, memory foam, and alcohol, prompting a large-scale emergency response.
Firefighters from the NSW Rural Fire Service, Fire and Rescue NSW, HAZMAT teams, paramedics, and police responded to the scene. Due to the intensity of the fire and the hazardous materials involved, authorities established a 300-metre exclusion zone while crews worked to contain the flames and secure the area.
Officials have confirmed that several drivers sustained serious injuries and were treated at the scene before being transported for medical care. Authorities also reported that one truck driver remains unaccounted for as emergency personnel continue search and recovery operations amid the wreckage.
The Hume Highway has been closed in both directions near Breadalbane while investigators examine the crash scene and emergency crews remove the destroyed vehicles. Motorists are being diverted via the Federal Highway and Barton Highway through Canberra. Traffic authorities have warned that the detour is suitable for vehicles up to B-double size and is expected to add approximately 80 minutes to travel times.
Crash investigators are working to determine the exact circumstances that led to the collision. At this stage, authorities have not released details regarding what caused the truck to strike the parked vehicles, and the investigation remains ongoing. Additional information is expected as police complete their examination of the scene.
Motorists traveling between Sydney, Canberra, and Melbourne are advised to avoid the affected section of the Hume Highway where possible and monitor official traffic updates before beginning their journey. Emergency services expect the highway to remain closed for an extended period while recovery, cleanup, and investigative work continues.