Man arrested over fatal North Lambton crash that claimed woman and unborn child

newy.com.au – Police have arrested a man following a fatal crash in North Lambton on the weekend that claimed the life of a woman and led to the loss of an unborn child. Officers took a 19-year-old man into custody at a home in Mayfield about 3.15pm today, 24 June, as part of an ongoing investigation into the deadly collision involving a Holden Commodore and a Hyundai sedan.

The crash occurred just after 2.40am on Sunday, 22 June, shortly after police attempted to stop a Holden Commodore in Wallsend. The vehicle was allegedly displaying unauthorised number plates and driving erratically. Officers chose not to pursue the car, citing safety concerns. A second police unit later saw the same vehicle on Newcastle Road in North Lambton, but again lost sight of it after it allegedly veered into oncoming traffic.

Moments later, the Commodore reportedly collided head-on with a Hyundai sedan travelling in the opposite direction. A woman believed to be 55, who was a passenger in the Hyundai, died at the scene. The 28-year-old driver, who was pregnant at the time, was rushed to John Hunter Hospital in a serious condition. Authorities later confirmed she had lost her unborn child.

The driver and front passenger of the Commodore allegedly fled the scene on foot before police arrived. Two teenage girls, aged 15 and 17, who were in the back seat of the Holden, were treated by paramedics and remain in hospital with serious injuries.

A crime scene was established and investigators from the Hunter Valley Police District have launched a critical incident inquiry under Strike Force Carrarang, with oversight by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission. A 17-year-old girl, believed to have been in the front passenger seat of the Holden, has also spoken with police.

Investigations are ongoing, and anyone with relevant information or footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.