Byron Bay Police Investigate Fatal M1 Motorway Crash

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Police are investigating the death of a man whose body was discovered on the M1 Pacific Motorway in northern New South Wales.

The incident occurred at around 7:15pm on Sunday, 10 August 2025, near Billinudgel, just north of Byron Bay. Emergency services were called after reports that multiple vehicles had collided with an unoccupied motorcycle on the roadway.

According to police, three cars struck the stationary motorcycle before a member of the public located the body of the suspected male rider nearby. The man has not yet been formally identified, and his cause of death is under investigation.

Two of the drivers involved were transported to Byron Bay Hospital for mandatory testing, while a third driver was taken to Tweed Valley Hospital for the same procedure. Police have not reported any other injuries from the collisions.

A crime scene was established, and officers from the Crash Investigation Unit attended the location to begin inquiries. Investigators are working to determine the sequence of events leading up to the crash and the circumstances surrounding the man’s death.

All vehicles involved in the incident, including the motorcycle, have been seized for forensic examination. Authorities will examine the mechanical condition of the vehicles, potential road hazards, and other contributing factors.

Police have appealed for any witnesses, dashcam footage, or information from motorists who were in the area at the time to assist with the investigation.

The M1 Pacific Motorway was partially closed for several hours on Sunday night while police examined the scene and cleared debris from the road. Traffic was diverted through alternative routes, causing delays for drivers travelling between Byron Bay and Tweed Heads.

A report will be prepared for the Coroner, who will oversee the formal identification of the deceased and determine the cause of death.

Police have not indicated whether they believe the incident was purely accidental or if other circumstances may have played a role. Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.

Authorities have reminded motorists to remain vigilant on the road, particularly when approaching accident scenes or stationary vehicles. They stressed the importance of reducing speed, maintaining safe distances, and being alert to changing traffic conditions to help prevent further tragedies.