Cars roll in serious crash on Bass Highway at Elizabeth Town

Police are continuing to investigate a two vehicle crash involving an unmarked police car, which was carrying the Prime Minister’s security detail, near Elizabeth Town yesterday.

FRIDAY MORNING: Police are continuing to investigate a two vehicle crash involving an unmarked police car, which was carrying the Prime Minister’s security detail, near Elizabeth Town yesterday.

A statement from Tasmania Police gave an update on the condition of the officers involved in the crash.

“The four police officers involved are recovering well- two Tasmania Police officers were discharged from hospital last night while two Australian Federal Police officers remain in hospital overnight for treatment for non life threatening injuries,” the statement said.

“Anyone who witnessed the crash who hasn’t already spoken to police is asked to contact police on 131 444. Dashcam or other footage can be submitted via the Evidence Portal.”

THURSDAY EVENING: Two of Scott Morrison’s protective detail and two Tasmanian police officers have been injured following a shocking car crash in Tasmania.

The unmarked police vehicle, a Toyota Prado, was following the Prime Minister as he travelled to a campaign event when a Mitsubishi Triton smashed into the back of it while attempting to merge on the Bass Highway.

The police car rolled off the road just outside Elizabeth Town about 1.30pm.

Two Tasmanian police officers and two Australian Federal Police officers from Mr Morrison’s security detail suffered non-life-threatening injuries and were rushed to hospital.

News Corp was told they were all conscious when rushed to hospital.

Mr Morrison was not involved in the crash.

He later issued a statement saying: “Earlier this afternoon two of my protective detail, along with two Tasmanian police officers were involved in a terrible car accident, while they were supporting my visit to Northern Tasmania.

“I am relieved they have all been safely transferred to hospital where they are receiving care.

Our police do an amazing job in keeping us all safe. I am incredibly grateful to all the police who look after me and my family.

ELECTION TEAM 2022 LIBERAL BUS TOUR 14/4/2022 Prime Minister Scott Morrisons security detail have a car accident rolling several times on the highway between Launceston and Davenport near Elizabeth Town. Picture: Jason Edwards

“We have all got to know each other over the years. They are selfless, professional and incredibly generous. I hope to hear further good news about their condition.

“Jen and I also send our thanks, love and best wishes to them and their families.”

Tasmania Police, which has now launched an investigation, said “initial enquiries indicate the Triton has collided with the rear of the police vehicle, while attempting to merge”.

It’s understood the unmarked police car then crashed through two sets of trailing and rolled down a grassy embankment, coming to a rest on its side.

ELECTION TEAM 2022 LIBERAL BUS TOUR 14/4/2022 3 occupants crash their car and roll on the road to Davenport from Launceston Tasmania. Picture: Jason Edwards

Both vehicles were travelling west between Deloraine and Latrobe.

The four police officers, a man and a woman from the AFP and two men from Tasmania Police, suffered non life-threatening injuries.

Images of the wreckage show the unmarked police car with a smashed windshield and a heavily dented roof.

ELECTION TEAM 2022 LIBERAL BUS TOUR 14/4/2022 Prime Minister Scott Morrisons security detail have a car accident rolling several times on the highway between Launceston and Davenport near Elizabeth Town. Picture: Jason Edwards

At least three officers could be seen lying on the ground being treated by paramedics.

Mr Morrison was travelling to a defence industry event, which has now been cancelled.

Home Affairs Minister Karen Andrews has wished the members of the Australian Federal Police and Tasmanian Police a “speedy recovery”.

“They were on duty, providing protection to the Prime Minister,” Ms Andrews said.

“My thoughts are with them and their families, and I thank them for their service.”

ELECTION TEAM 2022 LIBERAL BUS TOUR 14/4/2022 3 occupants crash their car and roll on the road to Davenport from Launceston Tasmania. Picture: Jason Edwards

Labor leader Anthony Albanese posted a note on Facebook saying: “Best wishes to the Australian Federal Police and Tasmania Police personnel assisting the PM who were involved in the car crash in Tasmania today. They do a fantastic job and I wish all a speedy recovery.”