Groom and Groomsman Seriously Injured on Way to Wedding After Taxi Crashes and Rolls Down Hill 7 Times: Reports

Groom and Groomsman Seriously Injured in Taxi Crash on Way to Wedding

A groom and one of his groomsmen have been seriously injured after the taxi carrying him and his wedding party crashed on the way to the nuptials in Australia, according to reports. New South Wales (NSW) Police Force confirmed in a statement obtained by PEOPLE that emergency services had been called to Mount View Road, Mount View in Hunter Valley on the morning of Wednesday, July 30.

The incident occurred at approximately 10:30 a.m. local time when emergency services responded to reports of a single-vehicle crash. The NSW Police Force mentioned that upon arrival at the scene, officers discovered a minibus that had rolled down an embankment, with two of the occupants reportedly in serious but stable conditions. The groom is among the two individuals severely injured in the crash, as per the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC).

According to reports, the other four occupants are being evaluated for various injuries, which are believed not to be serious. All individuals involved were promptly transported to the hospital for further assessment and treatment. In response to the incident, officers from the Hunter Valley Police District have set up a crime scene at the location of the crash.

The vehicle involved in the accident rolled up to seven times and came to a halt approximately 492 feet from the road, authorities mentioned. Superintendent Steve Laksa, the NSW Police district commander, confirmed that those on the bus were a groom’s party. The groom, a 56-year-old male, sustained serious injuries, while another passenger in his 60s suffered head wounds, with the groom believed to have sustained limb injuries during the crash.

The two individuals in critical condition were airlifted to John Hunter Hospital, while the remaining four were transported by ambulance to the same facility for medical attention. Superintendent Laksa stated that the driver of the minibus will undergo mandatory blood and alcohol testing as part of the ongoing investigation into the crash.

Despite the severity of the incident, Superintendent Laksa expressed gratitude that the injuries were not fatal, particularly considering that the wedding party had not reached the wedding venue at the time of the crash. He noted that weather conditions, including drizzle and an unsealed dirt road, may have contributed to the collision, although there is no indication at this stage that alcohol played a role.

NSW Health was contacted for additional information but did not immediately respond. As the investigation continues, authorities aim to determine the precise circumstances that led to the taxi crash and ensure appropriate measures are taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.

This unfortunate event serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of accidents and the importance of observing safety precautions while on the road. The bride and groom, along with their loved ones, are undoubtedly shaken by the incident and are now focusing on supporting the recovery of those injured in the crash. Our thoughts are with them during this difficult time as they navigate the aftermath of this harrowing experience.