Thunderbolts Way was completely blocked by the truck on its side (Greg Tannos)

Thunderbolt’s Way was closed for over 24 hours after a multi vehicle accident ended with a truck on its side crossing the road south of Walcha, taking the life of one man, injuring two others, and resulting in 35 head of cattle being killed.

A man has died following a three vehicle crash in the state’s north west.

About 10.15am on Wednesday, 1 April, emergency services responded to reports of a three vehicle crash along Thunderbolts Way, Walcha, about 90km east of Tamworth.

Officers attached to Oxley Police District attended and found two B-double trucks – one carrying a load of cattle – and a ute had been involved in the crash.

The driver of the cattle truck – a 22-year-old man from Glen Innes – died at the scene. About 35 cattle died in the crash, some being euthanised due to injuries.

The other driver of a logging truck – a 53-year-old man – suffered serious head injuries and was taken to John Hunter Hospital by NSW Ambulance paramedics for further treatment and mandatory testing.

The driver of the ute – a 63-year-old man – was treated for minor injuries before being taken to hospital for mandatory testing.

A crime scene was established and investigations commenced with assistance from the Crash Investigation Unit.

Thunderbolts Way was closed in both directions and investigators studied the crime scene for a considerable amount of time. Heavy vehicles were parked while light vehicles were sent on long diversions via minor roads.

The road remained closed for vehicle salvage on Thursday, being opened to traffic just after 1pm.