A multi-vehicle crash on State Highway 1 between Bombay and Ramarama has left three people dead and eight injured.
All lanes were closed till the evening as emergency services cleared the scene. The accident involved a truck, a van, and at least two cars.
Tamati Cassin, a motorist who arrived at the scene, saw three bodies in the van and two people injured in a separate vehicle. He said that public members ran to the aid of those involved.
The truck had been travelling southbound when it blew a tire, crossed the road, went through the barrier wires, and collided with a van.
St John Ambulance treated eight patients, including one in critical condition. Three in moderate condition, and four in minor condition.
Six were transported to various destinations. St John sent 10 vehicles to the accident, and a helicopter also flew to the crash scene.
Four ambulances, two rapid response vehicles, two operations managers, and one Westpac road unit have responded.
Social media posts show a truck, van, and at least two other cars with significant damage and people walking over the motorway.
Traffic was backed up for nearly 5 km. All northbound lanes on State Highway 1 between Bombay and Ramarama were closed in both directions.
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