A critical incident investigation is underway after a motorcyclist lost his life following a pursuit involving a stolen vehicle in northern New South Wales today.
At approximately 7:15 a.m. on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, Traffic and Highway Patrol officers attempted to stop a stolen Isuzu D-Max utility, reportedly taken during a break-in at a Moree home earlier that morning. The incident occurred on the Kamilaroi Highway, west of Gunnedah.
The driver of the Isuzu refused to stop, prompting police to initiate a pursuit heading toward Gunnedah.
While traveling on the Kamilaroi Highway in Gunnedah, the Isuzu collided with a motorcycle. Police immediately stopped to assist the motorcyclist, who had sustained critical injuries. Despite efforts by NSW Ambulance paramedics, the man could not be revived and was pronounced dead at the scene. He has yet to be formally identified.
The Isuzu continued through Gunnedah and onto the Oxley Highway. A second pursuit was initiated as additional officers joined the effort.
At Carroll, east of Gunnedah, the Isuzu lost control and crashed, after which its three occupants fled the scene.
A search was conducted, and three 14-year-old occupants of the stolen vehicle were arrested and taken to Tamworth Police Station.
Crime scenes have been established at both Gunnedah and Carroll, with local road closures in place. Specialist officers from the Crash Investigation Unit are examining the scenes.
A critical incident investigation team from the Orana-Mid Western Police District is leading the inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the incident. The investigation will also be subject to an independent review.
Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or via https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. All information will be treated confidentially.