‘Dangerous scene’: Trapped truck passenger dead after bridge collapse

A trapped truck passenger in Lithgow has died after emergency services worked for hours to save him following a bridge falling onto the vehicle.

A man has been trapped after a rail bridge collapsed onto his vehicle on Thursday morning. Picture: Facebook

A trapped truck passenger in Lithgow has died after emergency services worked for hours to save him following a bridge falling onto the vehicle.

Emergency services raced to the scene after a cherry picker with two Sydney Train employees crashed into a rail bridge causing it to collapse at Inch St, Lithgow about 9am Thursday morning.

The truck had struck a rail overpass, bringing part of the structure down onto the vehicle.

Police said the 38-year-old truck driver managed to free himself, with a high-scale emergency operation in place including NSW Ambulance paramedics, Fire and Rescue NSW and NSW Rural Fire Service to free the 34-year-old passenger.

But he died at the scene and the driver has undergone mandatory testing.

Chifley Police District Acting Commander John Walke said the passenger was “stuck for a considerable amount of time” and it was a “dangerous scene” for emergency services to approach.

Motorists have been advised to avoid the area: Picture: Supplied

“The scene presented some complexities for responding emergency services, as a result it took some time to get full attention to the passenger,” he said.

Before it was confirmed the passenger died, NSW Premier Chris Minns said he was aware of the “very troubling” incident and hoped the two injured workers would recover.

NSW Premier Chris Minns confirmed Sydney Train employees were involved in the incident. Picture: NewsWire / Nikki Short

“We’re thinking about those workers as well as their colleagues and family, and we’re hoping for good news soon,” Mr Minns said.

“That (news) obviously will be distressing for everybody involved, and it’s a reminder that when you’re dealing with heavy machinery, when you’re on the train network, it can often be difficult and dangerous work.

“We’re eternally grateful for the people that commit their lives to these professions.”

Roads Minister John Graham said his thoughts were with the two employees and their friends and family. Picture: NewsWire / Nikki Short

Transport Minister John Graham also said his thoughts were with the two employees and their friends and family as he indicated updates will be provided throughout the day.

Officers have cordoned off the area, and motorists are urged to avoid Inch St while the operation continues.

SafeWork NSW has been notified, and the rail bridge is currently non-operational.

The circumstances surrounding the crash are being investigated and anyone with dashcam or information is urged to contact Lithgow Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.

Do you know more? Message 0481 056 618 or email [e-mail]

Originally published as ‘Dangerous scene’: Trapped truck passenger dead after bridge collapse