CESNOCK, NEW SOUTH WALES – A joyful celebration turned into a nightmare for a groom diagnosed with motor neuron disease (MND) when the minibus carrying him and his groomsmen crashed down an embankment just hours before his wedding in New South Wales’ Hunter Valley.
John Barrett, a 50-year-old father of four, was on his way to the ceremony at the Molines Bistro at Tallavera Grove vineyard when the minibus veered off Mount View Road near Cessnock around 10:30 am on Wednesday.
The vehicle reportedly rolled seven times and tumbled more than 150 meters down a steep incline.
Mr. Barrett, who was recently diagnosed with MND and is wheelchair-bound, was trapped inside the wreckage for 45 minutes.
Guests traveling behind in a convoy called emergency services after witnessing the horrific crash.
Emergency crews arrived quickly, and two men, including Mr. Barrett and another male suffering suspected spinal injuries, were flown by rescue helicopters to John Hunter Hospital in a critical condition.
Four others, including the driver and three passengers, were taken by road ambulance to John Hunter Hospital in stable conditions.
NSW Ambulance Superintendent Jake Broughton-Rouse said, “Two critically unwell patients were transported by helicopter to John Hunter Hospital, and the four stable patients were transported by road to John Hunter Hospital.”
The police have launched a full investigation to determine how the minibus left the road, and the driver will undergo mandatory blood and alcohol testing.
Investigators are examining whether wet road conditions or seatbelt use played a role in the accident.
Hunter Valley Police District Commander, Superintendent Steve Laksa, stated, “It is a tragic situation, and we’re very fortunate that the injuries weren’t fatal.
It definitely could have been worse.”
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on `1800 333 000` or visit their website at `nsw.crimestoppers.com.au`.
The public’s assistance is crucial in helping authorities piece together the events leading up to this tragedy.