Four Lives Lost in Horrific Newell Highway Crash: Driver Jack Bowd Pleads Not Guilty to Dangerous Driving Charges
- Tragedy struck on September 27, 2024, when a ute crashed head-on with a van on the Newell Highway, killing four people, including two young friends and a couple with five children.
- Jack Bowd, 23, the sole survivor and driver of the ute, has pleaded not guilty to four counts of dangerous driving causing death, as well as charges of drink driving and failing to wear a seatbelt.
- The victims, Lochie Jacobs, 18, Joey Urban, 19, Sue Tait, 57, and Graham Tait, 57, were remembered by friends and family as “two great mates” and “devoted parents” with vibrant personalities.
A devastating crash on the Newell Highway has left a community in mourning, after four lives were lost in a horrific head-on collision. Jack Bowd, 23, the driver of the ute involved in the crash, has pleaded not guilty to four counts of dangerous driving causing death, as well as charges of drink driving and failing to wear a seatbelt.
On September 27, 2024, the ute driven by Bowd crashed with a van on the Newell Highway, about 35 kilometres south of Dubbo near Tomingley. The impact was so severe that it claimed the lives of four people: Lochie Jacobs, 18, Joey Urban, 19, Sue Tait, 57, and Graham Tait, 57.
According to friends and family, the victims were more than just statistics – they were vibrant individuals who left an indelible mark on those who knew them. Lochie Jacobs and Joey Urban were described as “two great mates” whose presence could light up any room. “You couldn’t help but smile and enjoy yourself whenever the pair were around,” a friend told the ABC.
Sue and Graham Tait, devoted parents of five, were remembered for their kindness and generosity. Sue worked at the Parkes Early Childhood Centre, where colleagues praised her “beautiful, big, loud laugh” and her special gift for caring for toddlers. Graham, a long-time coach driver, was described as “an amazing dad and husband” with a passion for books, model cars, and gramophones.
Bowd, who was treated for leg injuries after the crash, remains on bail as he awaits his next court appearance in December. The case has sent shockwaves through the community, with many struggling to come to terms with the loss of four innocent lives.
As the case progresses, the families of the victims will be seeking justice and closure. The community will be watching with bated breath as the trial unfolds, hoping that some semblance of peace can be restored to those affected by this tragedy.