How Did a Driver Die in a 3:45am Collision With a Garbage Truck on Nepean Highway in Cheltenham?

Quick answer: A driver died when his Toyota Hilux collided with a garbage truck on Nepean Highway near Cobham Street, Cheltenham, Victoria, Australia, at about 3:45am on Tuesday 13 October 2026.

Key facts

• Who: The male driver of a Toyota Hilux ute (not yet formally identified); the garbage truck driver (42)
• What: A collision between a Toyota Hilux ute and a garbage truck
• Where: Nepean Highway near Cobham Street, Cheltenham, Victoria, Australia
• When: About 3:45am on Tuesday, 13 October 2026
• Toll: 1 killed — the ute driver died at the scene; the garbage truck driver was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries
• Status: Victoria Police investigating; witnesses and dashcam footage sought

What happened

Emergency services were called to reports of a serious crash involving a Toyota Hilux and a garbage truck on Nepean Highway near Cobham Street at about 3:45am on Tuesday. The male driver of the ute died at the scene and had not yet been formally identified.

The 42-year-old garbage truck driver was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The ute was heavily damaged and debris was scattered across the road, affecting traffic on Nepean Highway.

Investigation

Victoria Police are investigating the fatal collision. The exact circumstances of the crash are still unclear, and police are urging any witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

If you drive on routes like this

• Slow down in unfamiliar conditions: every 1% of extra speed raises fatal-crash risk about 4%
• Never assume the other vehicle sees you at night or in rain — drive as if it doesn't
• On two-lane roads, treat every overtake as the highest-risk moment of the trip
• Wear the seatbelt in every seat; rear belts save lives in head-on impacts
• Know the local emergency number before you travel — our emergency numbers directory covers every country

Frequently asked questions

Where did the Cheltenham crash happen?

On Nepean Highway near Cobham Street, Cheltenham, Victoria, Australia, at about 3:45am on Tuesday, 13 October 2026.

Who died in the crash?

The male driver of the Toyota Hilux ute. He died at the scene and had not yet been formally identified.

Was anyone else hurt?

The 42-year-old garbage truck driver was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

What caused the crash?

The exact circumstances are still unclear. Victoria Police are investigating and have appealed for witnesses and dashcam footage via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

*This is a developing story compiled from verified reporting; figures may change as official information comes in.*

Sources: Victoria Police — https://www.police.vic.gov.au/breaking-news ; 7NEWS Australia / The Nightly