A man was tragically killed Thursday evening after being struck by a truck on the M1 Pacific Motorway near the Bruxner Highway in Pimlico, south of Ballina.
According to Live Traffic NSW, the incident occurred around 6:00 p.m. while northbound lanes were approaching the Bruxner Highway. The motorway was closed for several hours due to the crash and reopened to traffic at approximately midnight.
Preliminary reports indicate that the pedestrian had exited his vehicle and was in the emergency lane at the time of the incident when he was struck by the truck. Emergency responders arrived at the scene quickly, but the man was pronounced dead at the site. His identity has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.
Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the circumstances leading to the fatal collision. Police are urging any witnesses or motorists in the area at the time to come forward with information that may assist in the investigation.
The closure of the northbound lanes caused significant delays for motorists in the area. Drivers are reminded to exercise caution when traveling on major highways, particularly near accident scenes or areas with emergency activity.
This incident highlights the dangers of being on or near active roadways, even in emergency lanes, and serves as a sobering reminder of road safety for both drivers and pedestrians.
Police continue to work with emergency services and traffic authorities to ensure the motorway remains safe and to prevent similar tragedies. Further details regarding the crash and the pedestrian’s identity are expected to be released as the investigation progresses.