Man killed as B-double rolled and engulfed by fire at Brunswick Heads

Bystanders worked frantically to try and rescue the driver of a B-double which crashed just off the Pacific Highway on the state’s North Coast.

A truck rolled onto its side before catching fire. Picture: Savannah Pocock

A man has died following an horrific single vehicle crash on the state’s Far North Coast this morning.

Emergency services were called to the Saddle Rd offramp of the Pacific Motorway at Brunswick Heads, after a truck rolled trapping the driver about 6am on Friday, March 24.

A NSW Rural Fire Service truck at the scene. Picture: Savannah Pocock

Two witnesses attempted to free the driver from the B-double, however, the cabin was engulfed in flames.

A witness described the crash as “really traumatic” and “devastating”.

“I was on the scene when the flames started, a few brave men tried to smash their way in but couldn’t rescue him,” they said.

The northbound lane of the Pacific Motorway is closed. Picture: Savannah Pocock

“Not long after the truck was a fireball, it was horrible. I’ve never witnessed anything like this. That poor man.”

The driver died at the scene and is yet to be formally identified.

Officers attached to Tweed and Byron Police District are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Firefighters were able to extinguish the blaze. Picture: Savannah Pocock

A crime scene has been established with one northbound lane of the Pacific Motorway expected to be closed for a number of hours.

Motorists are urged to avoid the area.

A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.