Mitchell Fwy, Larras Lee: Probe launched after motorcyclist killed as police managed unrelated heavy vehicle crash in New South Wales

Police have begun a critical incident investigation after a motorcyclist was killed while officers were responding to an unrelated heavy vehicle crash.

Police in New South Wales will probe their own handling of a road crash scene after a motorcyclist was killed in the state’s central west on Saturday.

According to the NSW Police Force, officers were called to the Mitchell Hwy about 8.25am after a single-vehicle heavy vehicle crash near Larras Lee.

More than two hours later, the officers were waiting for the vehicle to be towed when two motorcyclists collided “nearby” causing one to fall of his motorbike around 10.50am.

The fallen biker, believed to be in his 40s, was then struck by a third motorcycle.

The motorcyclist died at the scene about 50km north of Orange. Picture: Supplied/ Live Traffic

He died at the scene despite efforts from officers, while the second two motorcyclists, both in their 60s, were taken to hospital.

“A critical incident investigation has commenced following a fatal two-vehicle crash near Orange today,” a police spokesman said.

“A crime scene has been established with specialist officers from the Crash Investigation Unit attending to examine the scene.

“The investigation is also subject to an independent review.”

According to the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission, a police oversight body, a critical incident is an incident involving a NSW police officer that results in the death or serious injury of a person.

The Mitchell Fwy between Cundimbul and Larras Lee remains closed in both directions.

Originally published as Mitchell Fwy, Larras Lee: Probe launched after motorcyclist killed as police managed unrelated heavy vehicle crash in New South Wales