One person has tragically died and two others are in critical condition following a two-vehicle crash at Old Beach yesterday afternoon, Tasmania Police confirmed in a media release issued on Monday, September 7, 2026.

Emergency services were called to the scene on the East Derwent Highway, near Riviera Drive, at approximately 1:35 pm, where a blue Nissan Qashqai and a silver Great Wall had collided head-on.

Sadly, the woman who was the front seat passenger of the Nissan Qashqai was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The woman driving the Nissan and the man driving the Great Wall were both transported by Ambulance to the Royal Hobart Hospital, where they remain in critical condition.

The East Derwent Highway was closed between Riviera Drive and Jetty Road for several hours while crash investigators examined the scene. Tasmania Police later confirmed the road has since re-opened.

Acting Inspector Amanda Hall addressed the recent spate of serious incidents on Tasmanian roads, stating, “Tragically, since Friday we’ve seen four people die, and four sustain critical injuries in crashes on our roads.”

Acting Inspector Hall emphasised the importance of road safety, urging all motorists to exercise caution every time they travel. “Every death on our roads is one too many, and today further families have received the devastating news that their loved one has died or been critically injured in a crash,” she said. “Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones affected.”

Investigations into the Old Beach crash are ongoing, and a report will be prepared for the coroner. Tasmania Police are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the crash, or who has dash cam footage relating to the incident or either vehicle beforehand, to come forward.

Members of the public with information are asked to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers Tasmania anonymously at crimestopperstas.com.au or on 1800 333 000, quoting ESCAD 209-07092026.

For further details, readers are encouraged to refer to the official Tasmania Police media release.