A young Indian-origin man has died after the fuel tanker he was driving crashed and rolled over on the Princes Freeway in Victoria’s Gippsland region.
Ashwani Sharma, 25, died at the scene after the B-double fuel tanker lost control near Darnum, east of Warragul, shortly before 6.30am on Saturday.
According to Victoria Police, the truck was travelling east along the Princes Freeway when it struck cable barriers. The driver’s cabin separated from the two fuel trailers before crashing into trees and overturning. Police believe Sharma was the sole occupant of the vehicle.
Emergency services responded to what Acting Senior Sergeant Dave Harrison described as a “complex” and “horrific” crash scene in wet conditions. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
The rollover caused a significant fuel spill across the freeway and into nearby bushland, prompting the closure of all eastbound lanes between Darnum and Yarragon. The incident also disrupted V/Line services, with replacement coaches operating between Warragul and Traralgon for much of the day.
The Country Fire Authority said hazardous fuel fumes were present at the scene but confirmed there was no ongoing risk to the surrounding community or environment.
Sharma’s sudden death has sent shockwaves through Melbourne’s Indian community.
In a heartfelt appeal shared after the tragedy, his wife described the overwhelming grief of losing her husband at just 25 years of age.
“He was only 25 years old. His sudden passing has left me and his family devastated both emotionally and financially.”
Remembering him as “a loving husband, a caring person, and a hardworking man”, she said the family is now facing significant emotional and financial hardship following the unexpected loss.
She has appealed to the community for support to help manage the financial challenges arising from the tragedy, saying any assistance would mean “a great deal” during this difficult time.
Victoria Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash and will prepare a report for the Coroner.
Anyone who witnessed the incident or has dashcam footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit information online through the Crime Stoppers Victoria website.
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