Driver freed after early morning crash at Lovedale

newy.com.au – Emergency crews responded to two incidents in the Hunter region overnight, including a serious single vehicle crash at Lovedale which left one person trapped.

The Cessnock District Rescue Squad was first called at 2.27am on 9 August to Dover Street, Cessnock, where a car had struck a house. No injuries were reported, and rescuers used acrow props to support the damaged structure before winching the vehicle clear to allow residents access.

At 3.44am, crews were dispatched to Lovedale Road, Lovedale, where a car had left the roadway, trapping the driver by compression. With no fire appliances initially on scene, rescuers stabilised the vehicle and provided fire protection before removing the windscreen and fitting an airbag restraint. Chains and a large spreader were used to relocate the dashboard, and a “third door” technique was performed to create space for extrication.

The occupant was placed on a spine board and transferred to NSW Ambulance paramedics. NSW Rural Fire Service, Fire and Rescue NSW, and NSW Police Force also attended. The Cessnock District Rescue Squad praised the coordinated response, describing it as a “great team effort by all services”.