A devastating collision late Sunday night inside the Ngang Pass tunnel, which connects Vietnam’s central provinces of Ha Tinh and Quang Tri, has left two people dead, including Australian chiropractor Dr. Sean Crawford.
The fatal accident occurred at around 11:50 p.m., when a sleeper bus and a seven-seat car collided head-on within the tunnel. Both vehicles sustained heavy damage. According to local media, two passengers in the car were killed instantly. One of the victims was identified as Dr. Crawford, 27, from Western Australia, who was in Vietnam on holiday.
A Broader Safety Crisis
Vietnam continues to struggle with high rates of road fatalities. Between January and July 2024, the country recorded 10,809 road accidents, resulting in 6,101 deaths and 7,205 injuries, according to the National Statistics Office.
This latest crash underscores the persistent dangers on Vietnam’s roads, even within infrastructure designed to improve travel safety, such as major tunnels.
Remembering Dr. Sean Crawford
The news of Dr. Crawford’s death has deeply shaken his colleagues, patients, and community in Australia. A practicing chiropractor at Wellbeing Chiropractic, Dr. Crawford was remembered as a valued member of the team, known for his warmth, skill, and unwavering dedication to patient care.
“It is with deep sadness we share the tragic news of the passing of our colleague and friend, Dr. Sean Crawford, following an accident while he was on holidays recently in Vietnam,” the clinic shared in a statement. “His sudden passing has left a profound loss for our staff, patients, and the wider community. Vale Dr. Sean Crawford. Your passion, kindness, and dedication will live on in the many lives you touched.”
Born and raised in Western Australia, Crawford moved to Victoria with his family in 2010. He studied at RMIT University, earning a double degree in Bachelor of Health Science and Bachelor of Applied Science (Chiropractic). During his studies, he worked with the RMIT sports academy and clinic, developing a strong interest in sports rehabilitation and recovery. Before joining Wellbeing Chiropractic’s Melton and Tarneit clinics, he practiced in Gisborne, where he built valuable experience and lasting relationships with patients.
Those who knew him describe him as a beloved son, friend, and healer whose passion for helping others was evident in every aspect of his life.
Funeral Service
A funeral to honor Dr. Crawford’s life will be held on Thursday, 21 August at 11:00 a.m. at St Andrew’s Uniting Church, Sunbury. Details of the service and tributes can be found via Tobin Brothers Funeral Directors.
As family, friends, patients, and colleagues prepare to say their final goodbyes, Dr. Sean Crawford will be remembered for his generosity, compassion, and the many lives he touched in his short but impactful career.