Road horror leaves families heartbroken

JAY FIELDING

HORROR on our roads has continued following a tragic fatal crash that shattered three families and left locals already numb.

Jodie Russell, 41, died after the SUV she was driving collided with a Ford Ranger towing a caravan on the Bruce Highway at Chatsworth, north of Gympie, about 3.45pm on Friday.

Her seven-year-old daughter and passenger, Tilly, was taken to Gympie Hospital with minor injuries.

The family of the Tinana woman, who worked at the Centrelink call centre in Maryborough, released a statement paying tribute to her.

“We are heartbroken by her sudden passing and she will be deeply missed by all who loved her dearly,” it read.

“She had a smile for everyone and a heart of gold.

“She has left behind treasured memories that we will always hold”.

A 72-year-old Sunshine Coast woman who was a passenger in the Ford was taken to Sunshine Coast University Hospital in a serious condition with chest injuries.

The driver, a 76-year-old Sunshine Coast man, was taken to Gympie Hospital with minor injuries.

The southbound lane of the highway was closed following the crash, with diversions in place for southbound vehicles.

The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the crash.

Tragedy struck again less than 48 hours later when a driver was killed in a crash at Duckinwilla,