Fatal Crash on Bruce Highway Under Investigation
Brisbane, 16 January 2026 – Queensland police are investigating a fatal traffic crash on the Bruce Highway at Bajool, where a pedestrian was killed after being struck by a vehicle on 13 January. Meanwhile, heavy rain has caused widespread flooding and road closures across northern Queensland highways, including sections of the Bruce Highway, leading to significant delays for motorists and truck drivers.
Details of the Fatal Crash
On 13 January, emergency services responded to reports of a collision between a white Ford Mondeo station wagon and a pedestrian near Oakey Creek Road in Bajool. The male pedestrian died at the scene. The driver, a 29-year-old man from Keppel Sands, was treated for injuries and is assisting police with inquiries. The Forensic Crash Unit is appealing for witnesses or dashcam footage to aid the investigation.
Current Road Conditions and Flooding Impacts
Heavy rain following ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji has led to multiple road closures due to flooding on Queensland highways. On the Bruce Highway, truck drivers reported being halted by a flooded creek near Marlborough, causing a standstill that lasted several hours before contraflow was implemented. Similar disruptions affected sections north of Gympie, with drivers criticising the lack of improvements to road conditions despite past flooding events.
Key Facts
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Fatal Crash at Bajool | Occurred on 13 January 2026; pedestrian killed; driver assisting police. |
| Bruce Highway Flooding | Flooded creek near Marlborough caused delays; contraflow opened around 9:00 am on 16 January. |
| Road Closures | Multiple highways closed due to long-term flooding, including Gulf Developmental Road and Kennedy Developmental Road. |
| Weather Impact | Heavy rain from ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji; ongoing wet season disruptions. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in the Bajool crash?
A pedestrian was fatally struck by a Ford Mondeo on the Bruce Highway near Oakey Creek Road on 13 January. Police are investigating and seeking witnesses.
Are there current closures on the Bruce Highway?
Sections are affected by flooding, such as near Marlborough, but traffic is moving under contraflow. Check qldtraffic.qld.gov.au for updates.
How is the Queensland Police addressing road safety?
The service promotes avoiding the ‘Fatal Five’ behaviours: speeding, drink and drug driving, not wearing seatbelts, fatigue, and distraction.