Three family members identified as victims of tragic Queensland crash

Several people are believed to have died after a two-car crash northwest of Brisbane. Crews were called to the scene near Nanango after a car and a B-double truck collided in foggy conditions at around 6am. The truck driver is in stable condition and is being treated by paramedics, while the truck is believed to be on its side.

Emergency responders responded to a call that a car and 18-wheeler truck crashed shortly before 6 a.m. Thursday on D'Aguilar Highway.

The collision happened at the intersection of Nanango Tarong Road, Nanango, about 180km northwest of Brisbane.

The B-Double's cabin overturned into a roadside ditch while the rear trailers remained upright on the roadway, photos of the aftermath showed.

An 81-year-old woman, an 84-year-old man and a 54-year-old man who died at the scene after suffering serious injuries have been identified as Margaret and Bob Wheeler, along with their son Steven Wheeler. All three lived at Booie, near Nanango.

The driver of the truck, a 52-year-old man, was taken to Kingaroy Hospital with minor injuries.

The D'Aguilar Highway was closed in both directions south of Nanango as motorists were advised to avoid the area.

Acting Inspector Brett Everest told reporters the accident “would have a resounding effect on the local community”.

“It’s just tragic,” he said Thursday.

“The police have spoken to their families and advised them, and we are certainly ensuring that they are looked after in the future.

“Any accident like this is tragic, our hearts go out to the families of those who were killed here today.”

Kingaroy Speedway posted a tribute on Facebook for Steven Wheeler, who was described as “one of our family”.

“Sadly, earlier today, Steven Wheeler or Ice Cream or Dessy as many of us so affectionately called him, lost his life along with his mother and father in a tragic road accident,” may we read in the message.

“Steve was always there when you needed something done on the speedway or just in general, he was always there. Steve has been a member of our club for what seems like forever.

“He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He will be remembered forever. Our thoughts are with his children, his family and his friends. Rest in peace mate, we will certainly miss you.”