On Monday evening around 5:10 p.m., a violent head‑on collision on Kings Highway at Monga in southern New South Wales left three people dead and others seriously injured. The crash happened on the rural stretch of highway that links Canberra and Batemans Bay, just west of Clyde Mountain. Two small Hyundai hatchbacks smashed into each other in a crash that turned a quiet road into a scene of devastation.
When emergency services arrived, the impact and wreckage were severe. Police confirmed the driver of one vehicle and two of the passengers riding with them died at the scene. Their identities have not yet been confirmed as investigators work to notify families. �
One person in that same car survived but was critically injured. Paramedics worked at the scene before arranging an airlift to a hospital where the injured person remains in serious condition. � The driver and a passenger from the second vehicle were also hurt and taken by ambulance to hospital after paramedics treated them at the crash site. �
Police have set up a crime scene and are investigating what led to the crash. Officers from the NSW Police Force are examining vehicle damage, road conditions, and witness accounts to understand how the collision unfolded. Authorities said the investigation is ongoing, and formal identification of those killed will be released once completed. �
The deadly crash forced the closure of Kings Highway in both directions for hours, leaving motorists stranded and causing major travel delays. Roads near Tudor Valley Road and Clyde Mountain Road remained blocked well into the night while emergency crews worked. Diversions were put in place, but drivers were warned to expect significant extra travel time. �
Local police are appealing for anyone who saw the crash or has dashcam footage to come forward. Even small details could help investigators piece together the final moments before the collision. Police and Crime Stoppers are urging the public to assist in the investigation. �
Families of the victims are in shock as the small community around Monga reels from the sudden loss. This crash was a stark reminder of how quickly routine travel can turn tragic, especially on rural highways where traffic speeds are high and emergency help can take longer to arrive. �
Canberra CityNews
