Five teenagers from the same school have died in a single-vehicle crash in Buxton, about 100km south-west of Sydney. The incident occurred around 8pm on Tuesday when a Nissan utility vehicle hit a tree at the intersection of Orange Road and East Parade.
The driver, an 18-year-old man, survived with non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to hospital for mandatory blood and urine tests. Police confirmed he returned a negative breath test at the scene. The vehicle was registered as a four-seater but was carrying six people at the time.
Three female passengers, aged 14 and 15, and two male passengers, aged 15 and 16, died at the scene. Camden police chief Superintendent Paul Fuller described the crash as 'horrific' and one of the worst he had seen in 38 years of service. He noted that some first responders would have known the victims.
Acting Inspector Jason Hogan said speed was a possible factor and that the driver held a provisional licence. Police are also investigating seatbelt use and the number of occupants. The vehicle was not stolen, and police will speak to the driver when appropriate.
The New South Wales Department of Education has deployed counselling teams to Picton High School, where the victims were students or ex-students. The school expressed its condolences and is providing support. Wollondilly Shire Mayor Matt Gould called the loss devastating and urged the community to support each other.
An investigation is under way, and a report will be prepared for the coroner. Police are appealing for dashcam footage or information from the public.
