Two off-duty officers were first on the scene of a "ghastly" crash that claimed the lives of two Wagga men in North Wagga, with a leading police officer describing the incident as "freakish".
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Riverina Police District Superintendent Bob Noble said two off-duty police officers raised the alarm after they heard the loud bang when the heavy vehicle hit the railway overpass.
"They made a great effort to try and free the two injured occupants from the vehicle, and they were relieved by rescue and emergency services," he said.
"Two occupants of that heavy vehicle were removed, but unfortunately, both those gentlemen were declared deceased at the scene."
Superintendent Noble said the victims of the tragedy were a 76-year-old man and a 70-year-old man, both residents of the Wagga local government area.
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He said initial investigations show only one vehicle was involved, and speed was not a factor, adding that extensive forensic examinations were under way.
After being part of the response to the incident, Superintendent Noble said it was an incredibly tough one for first responders to attend.
"It was a ghastly scene. It was actually something I would describe as a freakish accident," he said.
"I have never seen anything quite like it or remotely like it in the 30 years of attending all manner of motor vehicle accidents.
"It was quite a freakish and unusual instance that has led tragically to the death of these two gentlemen who are local people who are going out about their business. In a moment, their lives were snuffed out."
Superintendent Noble offered his condolences to the family and friends of the gentlemen.
"Our thoughts go out to the bereaved relatives, friends and social circles of these gentlemen," he said.
"It's tragic and terrible and a reminder of how ever-present the danger of serious injury or death is on our roads."
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