A man and a woman have died overnight in an explosion at an underground mine site in NSW, where authorities have closed off the area.
Emergency services were called to the mine on Endeavour Mine Road at Cobar, about 450km east of Broken Hill, at about 3.45 am on Tuesday.
New South Wales Police swiftly responded to a distressing report of a workplace incident that left two individuals critically injured. The incident, which unfolded with tragic consequences, marks another somber day for workplace safety.
Upon arrival at the scene, officers confirmed the unfortunate death of one man. Meanwhile, two women, who were also involved in the incident, were rescued and brought to the surface by emergency teams. Sadly, one of the women has since succumbed to her injuries, marking a second fatality.
One man was confirmed dead at the scene, and two women were brought to the surface by authorities, and one has since died.
The second woman has now been airlifted to hospital, reportedly suffering hearing damage and shock.
NSW Police said it will be working with the state coroner and will assist SafeWork NSW in its investigation.
This is a developing story and this article will be updated.
