Hunter Valley Driver Dies in Early Morning Crash on Maitland Road

A tragic single-vehicle accident claimed the life of a driver in Cessnock early this morning. Emergency services rushed to the scene along Maitland Road shortly after 5 am on Saturday, 26 October 2024, following reports of a vehicle colliding with a tree.

The 46-year-old male driver, the sole occupant of the vehicle, was pronounced deceased at the scene. Officers from the Hunter Valley Police District have commenced an investigation into the cause of the crash and are preparing a report for the Coroner.

As police investigations continue, Maitland Road remains closed between Quarry Street and Duffie Drive, with diversions in place to assist traffic flow. Light vehicles are advised to detour via Victoria Street, Quarrybylong Street, Melbourne Street, and Duffie Drive in both directions. Heavy vehicles travelling between Cessnock and Kurri Kurri are directed to alternative routes, including Vincent Street, Aberdare Road, and Standford Street.

Motorists are urged to allow extra travel time and avoid the area if possible. Police have appealed for anyone with information or dashcam footage from around the time of the incident to contact Cessnock Police Station or Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.