Source : Perth Now news
A man has died after a truck rollover on the Princes Freeway in West Gippsland, causing a fuel spill on the road and train delays.
The B-double truck, which was carrying fuel, was travelling east down the Princes Freeway in Darnum, about 110km east of Melbourne, shortly before 6.30am Saturday when it crashed into cable fencing.
The driver cabin disconnected from the two trailers before it crashed into trees, tipping on its side.
The driver, who police believe was the sole occupant of the truck, died at the scene.
The crash caused the tanker to roll on its side, spilling fuel onto the road and into the surrounding bushland.
Acting Senior Sergeant Dave Harrison told reporters it was a “complex scene”.
“We’re currently managing a complex scene here with very wet and complex conditions,” he said.
“Can’t speculate on the cause at this time and the investigation is ongoing.”
He said the first responders arrived to “quite a horrific scene”.
The Country Fire Authority said the fuel spill released hazardous fumes on the freeway, but there was no danger to the environment or community.
All eastbound lanes of the Princes Freeway have been closed between Darnum and Yarragon.
Transport for Victoria has urged drivers to follow the direction of emergency services.
“Detour options are lengthy via Warragul, Korumburra and Leongatha,” a statement read.
The crash has also caused train delays.
Coaches have replaced VLine trains between Warragul and Traralgon, with coaches expected to replace rail operations until 11pm with an extended journey time of 90 minutes.
“Passengers are advised to board replacement coaches between Traralgon and Warragul, with trains continuing to operate between Warragul and Southern Cross,” a VLine statement read.
“Passengers travelling to Bairnsdale are advised to board a replacement coach between Warragul and Traralgon to complete their journey.”
