About 11.30am today (Sunday 21 May 2023), emergency services were called to the Pacific Highway at Ferrodale, approximately one km north of the Medowie Road intersection, following reports of a single-vehicle crash.
Officers from Port Stephens-Hunter Police District attended and were told an SUV had left the road and hit a tree.
The driver – a 70-year-old man, died at the scene.
A 70-year-old woman was conveyed to John Hunter Hospital in a serious but stable condition with suspected spinal injuries.
A crime scene was established and an investigation is underway into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
A report will be prepared for the Coroner.
As police make inquiries, anyone with dashcam footage or information related to the incident are urged to contact Port Stephens-Hunter Police District or Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.