Police investigations are continuing into a serious crash that occurred on Club Drive, Shearwater, on Sunday night, October 11, 2026. The incident, which happened around 6:40 pm, saw a Toyota LandCruiser mount the footpath and strike people seated outside Shearwater Food Co, before colliding with the building itself.
Emergency services, including police and ambulance, responded to reports of the crash. Tasmania Police Inspector Michelle Elmer stated that initial investigations indicate the incident was not a deliberate action. Inspector Elmer also noted that while the vehicle was not travelling at “road speed,” the impact was significant enough to cause injuries and damage to the building.
Among those injured, a 26-year-old woman, who was dining at the cafe, was transported by ambulance to Launceston General Hospital with serious injuries. She remains in a stable condition. A 29-year-old female staff member was also taken to the North West Regional Hospital, where she remains in a stable condition.
Another diner, a 60-year-old man, was transported to the North West Regional Hospital but has since been discharged. A 26-year-old man, who was part of the group, received minor injuries and was treated at the scene.
The elderly male driver of the Toyota LandCruiser was assessed by ambulance personnel at the scene and was found to have no serious physical injuries. As is standard practice in serious crash incidents, he was transported to hospital for further assessment. A male passenger in the vehicle also received minor injuries and was treated at the scene.
The Shearwater Food Co building sustained significant damage to its front. The cafe remains closed, with the area around the shopfront cordoned off as investigations proceed. Police are still working to determine the exact number of people inside the cafe at the time of the crash.
Inspector Elmer confirmed that the driver underwent testing for alcohol and drugs, with the results currently pending.
Tasmania Police confirmed that no charges have been laid at this time as investigations are ongoing.
Police are appealing to the public for assistance. Anyone who witnessed the incident or possesses information that could aid the investigation is urged to contact Police on 131 444.