A father and his two children have died in a car crash in Queensland, Australia, while the mother fights for her life in hospital. The incident occurred on Dalby-Jandowae Road at Jimbour East, northwest of Toowoomba, at approximately 10.50am on Monday.
The 54-year-old father, an eight-year-old boy and a 15-year-old girl were pronounced dead at the scene. The mother was airlifted to the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital in a critical condition.
The driver of a ute that rear-ended the family's sedan sustained minor injuries and was taken to Dalby Hospital. Police have urged drivers to avoid the area as investigations continue, with the road expected to remain closed for several hours.
Police Inspector Greg Wheeler described the scene as 'horrific' for emergency responders, particularly given the involvement of children. 'A family basically here one minute, not the next,' he said. Police Commissioner Steve Gollschewski reminded motorists to obey road rules and drive to conditions, citing a significant challenge with the state's road toll this year.