Truck passenger killed in north Tas crash marks 28th road fatality in state this year

A man has died and a driver is in hospital after a full cement truck veered off a northern Tasmanian road and struck a bank. Police tell where Tasmania’s road toll currently sits.

Tasmania Police generic image police car

A male passenger has died at the scene of a Merseylea truck crash on Friday morning, after the vehicle struck an embankment when it veered off the road.

Police and emergency services said they were called to the site on Railton Road between Sunnyside Road and Bridle Track Road in the state’s north by members of the public who witnessed the crash and called for help.

The stretch of Railton Road close to where the fatal truck crash occurred. Picture: Google

Tasmania Police Western District Acting Inspector Martin Parker said medical attention was given to both the male truck driver and his male passenger, but the passenger was declared deceased.

“Crash investigation services are investigating the cause of the crash,” he said.

“We don’t know where the cement truck was headed.

“Initial investigations indicate the prime mover was travelling in a south easterly direction, approaching a slight bend, when it has veered off the road and crashed into a bank.

“I believe the cement truck had been and filled up on cement and was going somewhere.”

Mr Parker said the male driver was taken to the Launceston General Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

The truck is a write-off.

This fatality marks the 28th death on Tasmanian roads this year, compared to 15 deaths for the same period last year.

Acting Inspector Martin Parker speaks outside the Devonport Police Station

Serious injuries on Tasmanian roads are level with the same period last year, recording 163 until July 11 this year compared to 166 last year.

“We urge motorists to drive caution and cure, particularly in these winter months when roads are wet and slippery,” Mr Parker said.

“Turn their headlights on early, remain visible on the road and that drivers adjust their driving to suit weather conditions.”

A report will be prepared for the coroner.

Police are encouraging anyone with information or relevant dash cam footage to contact police on 131 444 and quote ESCAD 21-25072025.

Originally published as Truck passenger killed in north Tas crash marks 28th road fatality in state this year