New theory emerges about possible cause of fatal bus crash

A new theory has emerged about the possible cause of the fatal bus crash that saw one man die and 13 passengers injured in a tragic start to the holidays.

A new theory has emerged about the potential cause of the fatal bus crash that killed a man and injured 13 passengers in NSW’s Riverina region on Saturday morning.

Police are investigating whether fatigue was potentially the cause of the fatal bus crash that killed a bus driver and injured 13 others after two vehicles crashed on the Hume Highway at Kyeamba, 50km south of Wagga Wagga, about 3.35pm on Saturday.

The driver of the bus, a 32-year-old Victorian man died at the scene, and 13 others were injured.

Emergency services are on the Hume Highway near Wagga Wagga. Picture: Nine

Police are now investigating whether the bus had slowed down while climbing the hill, and examining whether a change in speed contributed to the crash.

“It appears from early indications that the bus collided with the rear of the semi-trailer as it went up a steep incline here at Kyeamba Gap,” Chief Inspector Scott Russell said.

Speaking to 7News, a passenger on-board the bus recalled the terrifying moment the bus hit the truck.

“I woke up to my head hitting the seat,” passenger Lily Harper said.

“The reality set in after a few minutes when we hadn’t got off, and we realised we couldn’t get off without smashing the window. That’s when we kind of panicked a bit.”

Ms Harper added she and other passengers were afraid “another car … would hit us” after the collision.

Greyhound Australia spokesman Michael Leard said the coach company was “heartbroken” to have lost the driver in this devastating crash.

“This is a tragic incident, and our deepest sympathies go out to his family and friends,” he said.

“Several passengers received non-life-threatening injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment. We are offering support to all those involved in this tragedy.

“We are working closely with authorities to assist them with their investigation in understanding the course of events that have led to this accident.”

Mr Leard confirmed the GX322 service was travelling from Melbourne to Sydney at the time of the crash.

Police are investigating the cause of the crash. Picture: Nine

NSW Ambulance inspector Jennifer Barker told the ABC a lot of the passengers on-board the bus were able to free themselves before paramedics arrived on the scene.

It is yet to be determined how many passengers were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash.

However, Inspector Barker said “the majority of them weren’t wearing seatbelts, which potentially could have lessened their injuries”.

NSW Police confirmed 13 passengers were taken to hospital for a range of injuries, including lacerations and a suspected broken leg, though none of the injuries are life threatening.

A further 29 people were taken to hospital for assessment.

“It was dark, it was early in the morning and there were lots of emergency services on scene,” Inspector Barker said per ABC.

“So, determining who our patients were took a little time.”

The bus was travelling on the Hume Highway south of Wagga Wagga at about 3.35am on Saturday. Picture: OpenStreetMap

The truck driver was not injured during the crash and has since been released from Wagga Base Hospital where he underwent mandatory testing.

“Police have established a crime scene and commenced an investigation into the cause of the crash,”a police spokesperson said.

Transport Minister Jo Haylen said her thoughts were with the family of the driver alongside the 13 injured passengers.

“It is an unfortunate reminder of the dangers on our roads, particularly this time of the year, and we ask all road users to drive safely.” she said.

“Police have established a crime scene and commenced an investigation into the cause of the crash.”

The driver of the bus was killed. Picture: Nine

Anyone with dashcam or information has been urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.