A woman has died and five other people have been taken to hospital following a serious two-vehicle crash on a key Port Stephens road on Saturday evening.
Emergency Response to Nelson Bay Road
Emergency services were called to Nelson Bay Road at Salamander Bay shortly after 7:25 pm on Saturday, January 17, 2026, following reports of a collision. Officers from the Port Stephens Hunter Police District arrived to find two vehicles with significant damage.
The driver of a Toyota RAV4, a 77-year-old woman, died at the scene despite the efforts of paramedics. Three passengers from the same vehicle, a 76-year-old woman and two men aged 78 and 79, were treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being transported to John Hunter Hospital. Police confirmed all three were in a stable condition.
Second Vehicle Occupants Hospitalised
The driver and passenger of the second vehicle involved, a Subaru Forester, also required medical attention. A 66-year-old man and a 60-year-old woman were treated at the scene before being taken to John Hunter Hospital. Authorities reported that both were also in a stable condition.
The crash resulted in a major emergency response, closing the road for several hours as crews worked to assist the injured and secure the area.
Police Investigation Underway
Police established a crime scene, which was forensically examined by specialists from the Crash Investigation Unit. A report is now being prepared for the Coroner, as is standard procedure in fatal traffic incidents.
Investigators are urging anyone who witnessed the crash, has dash-cam footage from the area around Nelson Bay Road near Salamander Bay on Saturday evening, or has any other information that could assist, to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
The tragic incident serves as a sombre reminder of the dangers on regional roads, particularly during the summer holiday period when traffic volumes are high.
