Emergency services responded to reports of a severe vehicle collision with a side barrier on Princes Freeway in Lara at approximately 8:55 PM on Friday, August 16.
The driver and one passenger were transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, while a 20-year-old female passenger sustained critical injuries and had to be airlifted to The Alfred Hospital.
The collision led to a significant disruption, with the Melbourne-bound lanes of Princes Freeway being shut down to allow emergency services to manage the scene.
Social media reports indicated that drivers were left waiting for the scene to be cleared, with some seen exiting their vehicles to talk with others as they awaited the freeway to reopen.
The investigation into the crash is ongoing.
Witnesses or individuals with information or CCTV footage are urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at www.crimestoppers.com.au.