The back passenger of a ute who died in a fiery crash in Sydney’s southwest has become the 12th person to die on NSW roads this month, which police label as “totally unacceptable”.
The woman was killed after the ute she was in crossed to the wrong side of the road and collided with another vehicle on Menangle Road in Douglas Park early on Monday morning.
“They’re often referred to as ‘accidents’ – they simply are not,” Traffic and Highway Patrol Command Assistant Commissioner Brett McFadden told media.
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“They are crashes with somebody responsible for taking the life of another individual.
“No matter which way you look at it. It’s totally unacceptable.”
The two vehicles were travelling in opposite directions about 4.20am when the ute carrying two people collided with the other car.
The 55-year-old male driver of the ute managed to escape, but his 37-year-old back-seat passenger died after being trapped inside the vehicle as it caught fire.
“Unfortunately the woman was unable to be recovered from the vehicle and has died at the scene,” McFadden said.
The other driver and sole occupant of the eastbound vehicle sustained arm injuries.
Police say the ute crossed to the incorrect side of the road for reasons that are as yet unknown, making the driver responsible for the outcome.
Menangle Rd was closed for some time as a result of the crash.
Both drivers were arrested for the purposes of mandatory testing and are assisting police with their inquiries. No charges have been laid.
Anyone with information or dashcam footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
– with AAP
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