13 Spectators Injured After Driver 'Blacked Out' During Demolition Derby

Thirteen people have been injured, one seriously, after a driver “blacked out” at an Australian demolition derby, according to a news release from the New South Wales (NSW) Police.

13 People Injured After Driver 'Blacked Out'

The crash occurred on Saturday, Nov. 15, at around 6:15 p.m. local time at the Walcha showground and speedway. One of the vehicles participating in the demolition derby “crashed through a fence” and collided with multiple bystanders. At least 13 people were injured in the crash.

Eight men and three women between the ages of 20 and 75 were transported to Walcha District Hospital. Four others were transported to Armidale Hospital with minor injuries, and released shortly thereafter. Per 9 News Australia, a 54-year-old man and a 27-year-old man were critically injured in the accident. The 54-year-old suffered spinal damage, while the 27-year-old suffered a head injury.

Driver Identified as Steven Taylor

The driver was identified by 10 News + as 27-year-old Steven Taylor. Taylor was also involved in an on-track collision with another vehicle before the accident. Steven’s brother, Blake Taylor, told the outlet that it’s believed his brother “pinched a nerve somewhere in his spine, in the bone of his neck” after the vehicle collision, which caused him to “black out” before driving into the crowd.

“It was just a freak moment of a hit,” Blake said. “Due to the impact as he’s gone and drove forward, it was when he blacked out and his foot was flat to the floor.” Steven was attended to by paramedics at the scene before being transported to Walcha Hospital for mandatory tests.

Investigation Is Ongoing

“Walcha Council acknowledges the serious incident that occurred during the 2025 Walcha Motorcycle Rally on Saturday evening,” the Walcha Motorcycle Rally (WMR) said in a statement. “Our thoughts remain with everyone affected…We extend our sincere thanks to the emergency services, medical teams, and community members who responded immediately and provided critical assistance.” The WMR added that it’s working with authorities to investigate the incident.

"People obviously want to know what the cause was, what lessons can be learned, but that's too early at this time," Walcha Shire Council manager Stephen Parry told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). "We will find out in due course what improvements may need to be made, but our real concerns are with the injured."