A terrifying and deadly incident unfolded on the Bruce Highway this morning, leaving one woman dead and another motorist traumatized after a gunman opened fire following a crash. Authorities have launched a full-scale investigation into what police are describing as a “targeted and extremely violent” attack that brought chaos to one of Queensland’s busiest transport routes.

The Attack Unfolds

The incident occurred just after 7:30 AM near the Bowenville turnoff, west of Toowoomba. Witnesses reported a minor car crash involving two vehicles, which initially appeared to be nothing more than a routine highway collision. However, what followed was a shocking escalation no one could have predicted.

According to Queensland Police, shortly after the crash, a man exited one of the vehicles armed with a firearm. He approached the other car involved in the accident and fired multiple rounds at a woman believed to be in her 30s, killing her instantly.

“Emergency services responded quickly, but unfortunately the female victim sustained fatal injuries and was declared deceased at the scene,” said Detective Inspector Emma Johnston during a press conference.

Gunman Targets Second Driver

In a chilling continuation of the rampage, the armed man then turned his weapon on a second passing vehicle, forcing it to a stop. The driver, a man in his 40s, was reportedly held at gunpoint. According to eyewitnesses, the gunman attempted to commandeer the vehicle, shouting erratically and demanding the driver exit.

Luckily, the second driver managed to flee on foot without being harmed, and the gunman abandoned the attempt before fleeing the scene. Police say he escaped into nearby bushland, prompting an urgent manhunt.

Manhunt Underway

The Bruce Highway was shut down in both directions as heavily armed tactical police and a helicopter unit launched a search of the surrounding area. Police have not yet confirmed the identity of the suspect but described him as a Caucasian male, approximately 40–50 years old, last seen wearing dark clothing.

Local residents have been warned to stay indoors, lock their doors, and report any suspicious activity.

“We believe this is a targeted attack, but given the public nature of the incident and the suspect being armed, we urge everyone to exercise caution,” said Johnston. “This is a fast-moving and ongoing situation.”

Community in Shock

The horrifying events have left the local community reeling. The Bruce Highway is a major corridor used by thousands of commuters and freight vehicles each day, and violent crimes of this nature are exceedingly rare.

Nearby resident Sharon McLeod told reporters, “You just don’t expect this sort of thing to happen here. It’s terrifying. I drive that stretch every morning — it could’ve been anyone.”

The deceased woman’s identity has not yet been released, pending notification of her family. Grief counselors have been made available for witnesses and first responders affected by the trauma of the scene.

Political and Public Reaction

Queensland Premier Steven Miles called the attack “deeply disturbing” and expressed his condolences to the victim’s family.

“We will ensure police have every resource they need to bring this individual to justice,” he said. “No one should have to fear this kind of senseless violence on our roads.”

Meanwhile, debates over gun control and highway safety have reignited, with several members of Parliament calling for tighter restrictions on firearm ownership and more surveillance on isolated stretches of road.

What Comes Next

Authorities are expected to hold another press briefing later today as the manhunt continues. For now, a stretch of the Bruce Highway remains closed, with traffic being diverted through alternate routes. Drivers are advised to avoid the area until further notice.

Anyone with information about the incident or who may have dashcam footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers immediately.

This tragic event has shaken the heart of Queensland — a reminder of how swiftly ordinary life can turn into something unimaginable. As the search for the gunman intensifies, the community hopes for swift justice and an end to the fear that has suddenly gripped their once-peaceful highway.