UPDATE: Critical incident investigation underway after fatal two-vehicle crash - North Lambton
Sunday, 22 June 2025 02:10:31 PM
A critical incident investigation is underway after a fatal two-vehicle crash near Newcastle early this morning.
Just after 2.40am today (Sunday 22 June 2025), officers attached to Newcastle City Police District were patrolling on Newcastle Road, Wallsend, when they sighted a Holden Commodore allegedly bearing unauthorised number plates.
Police signalled for the vehicle to stop; however, the Commodore allegedly continued driving in a dangerous manner, and officers did not engage in a pursuit due to safety concerns.
A short time later, a second police vehicle was monitoring the Commodore on Newcastle Road, North Lambton, when the vehicle again allegedly crossed onto the incorrect side of the road, and officers lost sight of the vehicle.
Police continued to monitor the area and were called to the eastbound lanes of Newcastle Road at North Lambton following reports the Holden Commodore crashed head-on with a Hyundai sedan travelling in the opposite direction.
The passenger of the Hyundai – a woman believed to be aged 55 – died at the scene. She is yet to be formally identified.
The driver of the Hyundai – a 28-year-old woman – was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to John Hunter Hospital in a serious condition. Police have since been informed that the woman was 25 weeks pregnant and has subsequently lost her unborn child.
The driver and front passenger of the Holden allegedly left the scene prior to police arrival.
The two rear passengers in the Holden – two girls aged 15 and 17 – were treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to John Hunter Hospital where they both remain in serious conditions.
As inquiries continue, police wish to speak with a man seen in the area at the time of the incident who might be able to assist with inquiries. He is described as being of Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander appearance, believed to be aged in his late teens, about 165cm tall, of thin build, with brown hair and brown eyes. Police are actively making inquiries to locate him and urge anyone with relevant footage or information to come forward.
Police also wish to speak with a 17-year-old girl who is believed to be the front seat passenger of the vehicle.
A crime scene was established and a critical incident team from Hunter Valley Police District will investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The investigation will be reviewed by the Professional Standards Command and oversighted by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC).
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.