A tragic incident in Newcastle has resulted in the death of a woman and left another seriously injured following an alleged hit-and-run. The New South Wales Police have initiated a critical incident investigation to locate the driver responsible for the collision, which occurred in North Lambton shortly after 2.40 am.
According to police reports, officers had observed a Holden sedan driving erratically on Newcastle Road but chose not to pursue the vehicle due to safety concerns. Shortly thereafter, the Holden collided with a Hyundai sedan on the same road. The passenger of the Hyundai, a woman believed to be in her 50s, sadly died at the scene, and her identity is yet to be confirmed. Meanwhile, the 28-year-old driver of the Hyundai was taken to John Hunter Hospital in serious condition.
The driver of the Holden allegedly fled the scene before police arrived. Two rear-seat passengers in the Holden, girls aged 15 and 17, received treatment from paramedics before being transported to John Hunter Hospital under police supervision.
A crime scene has been established, and a critical incident team from the Hunter Valley Police District is tasked with investigating the circumstances of the crash. The inquiry will be reviewed by the Professional Standards Command and monitored by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC).
Authorities are appealing for anyone with information, as well as those possessing CCTV or dashcam footage related to the incident, to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000. All information provided will be treated confidentially.