A critical incident investigation has been declared following a police pursuit and crash near Coffs Harbour today.
About 7.45am (Thursday 12 December 2024), police were patrolling the Pacific Highway at Tucabia – about 15km east of Grafton – when they attempted to stop a vehicle due to its alleged speed.
When the vehicle allegedly failed to stop as directed, a pursuit was initiated; however, was soon terminated due to the manner of driving.
A second pursuit was initiated a short time later, before the car allegedly conducted a U-turn at Dirty Creek into the path of an oncoming truck, resulting in a collision.
The driver of the vehicle, a 19-year-old man, was treated at the scene by police and NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to Coffs Harbour Hospital in a critical condition.
The driver of the truck, a 50-year-old man, was not injured; however, was taken to Grafton Hospital for mandatory testing.
A crime scene has been established and the scene will be forensically examined by the Crash Investigation Unit.
A critical incident team from Mid North Coast Police District will investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The investigation is also subject to an independent review.
As inquiries continue, anyone with information or dashcam footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
The Pacific Highway at Dirty Creek is expected to remain closed northbound for some time.
Diversions are in place and delays are expected. For traffic updates visit: www.livetraffic.com
