Indian-origin truck driver killed in fuel tanker crash in Australia; wife says he was 25 years old

A 25-year-old Indian-origin truck driver has died after the fuel tanker he was driving crashed and overturned on the Princes Freeway near Warragul in Victoria’s Gippsland region in Australia on Saturday.Ashwani Sharma died at the scene after the B-double fuel tanker lost control near Darnum, east of Warragul, shortly before 6. 30am.According to Victoria Police, the truck was travelling east along the Princes Freeway when it struck cable barriers. The force of the crash caused the driver’s cabin to separate from the two fuel trailers before it slammed into trees and overturned. Police believe Sharma was the only person in the vehicle.Emergency services rushed to the scene, where Acting Senior Sergeant Dave Harrison described the crash as “complex” and “horrific”, with wet weather making conditions challenging. The exact cause of the crash is yet to be determined and remains under investigation.The crash triggered a major fuel spill across the freeway and into nearby bushland, forcing authorities to close all eastbound lanes between Darnum and Yarragon. The incident also disrupted V/Line services, with replacement coaches operating between Warragul and Traralgon for much of the day.The Country Fire Authority said hazardous fuel fumes were detected at the scene but confirmed there was no ongoing risk to nearby residents or the environment.Sharma’s death has left Melbourne’s Indian community in mourning.In an emotional appeal following the tragedy, his wife spoke of the heartbreak of losing her husband at such a young age.“He was only 25 years old. His sudden passing has left me and his family devastated both emotionally and financially.”Remembering him as “a loving husband, a caring person, and a hardworking man”, she said the family is now facing significant emotional and financial hardship following the unexpected loss.She has appealed to the community for support to help manage the financial challenges arising from the tragedy, saying any assistance would mean “a great deal” during this difficult time.