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Two pedestrians remain in critical condition following a serious road accident near Tallebudgera Surf Club in Palm Beach on the Gold Coast, Queensland. The crash occurred on Thursday afternoon, 1 October 2026, at the intersection of Gold Coast Highway and Tallebudgera Drive, prompting an emergency response and a police investigation.

According to initial reports, a 76-year-old man from Southport was driving a white Hyundai Kona when the vehicle reportedly lost control. The car struck a gutter, became airborne and crashed through traffic lights before hitting two pedestrians who were waiting to cross the road. The circumstances leading to the vehicle losing control have not yet been fully established.

The two pedestrians, a 30-year-old man and a 30-year-old woman, sustained critical injuries in the collision. Emergency services attended the scene and provided assistance before the injured pedestrians were transported for medical treatment. Both remained in critical condition on Friday morning, 2 October, according to reports.

The driver of the Hyundai Kona and his 68-year-old female passenger were also assessed following the crash. They were reported to be in stable condition. No further details about their injuries were immediately available.

The collision caused significant disruption around the intersection, with police partially closing the Gold Coast Highway while emergency crews worked at the scene. Motorists travelling through Palm Beach experienced delays as authorities managed traffic and secured the area. Debris from the crash was scattered across the roadway, requiring attention from emergency personnel.

The impact also damaged a power pole, prompting Energex to attend the scene and assist with the resulting infrastructure hazard. Emergency workers coordinated their response to address the road damage and ensure the area was safe for other road users.

Queensland Police Service's Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the incident to determine the events that led to the collision. Investigators are examining the circumstances surrounding the vehicle's movements, the condition of the road and other relevant evidence. The exact cause of the crash has not yet been confirmed, and no conclusions should be drawn while inquiries remain underway.

Police are appealing for witnesses who may have seen the vehicle before the collision or observed the incident itself. Anyone with relevant dashcam footage, CCTV recordings or other information is encouraged to contact Queensland Police.

The crash has renewed attention on pedestrian safety at busy intersections, particularly in areas where vehicles and people crossing the road share limited space. However, investigators will need to establish the specific factors involved before determining whether road conditions, driver actions or other circumstances contributed to this incident.

Authorities have urged motorists to remain alert, follow traffic directions and take care when travelling through areas affected by emergency operations. Further updates may be provided as the investigation progresses and more verified information becomes available.