Christmas Eve tragedy in northern NSW leaves one teenager dead and two critically injured in car crash

As Australia celebrated Christmas Eve with family gatherings and holiday travel, tragedy struck on a regional road in northern New South Wales, where a car crash claimed the life of a teenage boy and left two others fighting for survival.

One passenger died at the scene and has yet to be formally identified.

Following reports of a car crashing into a tree, emergency services rushed to Diamond Head Road in Coralville, about 35 kilometres north of Taree. When police and paramedics arrived, they discovered three teenage boys who had been travelling in the vehicle.


According to the 9News website, after being treated at the scene, the driver and another passenger were airlifted to John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle, where authorities say they remain in a critical but stable condition.

Police have cordoned off the section of road where the crash occurred as investigations continue. Specialist officers from the Crash Investigation Unit are expected to attend the scene to assist with the inquiry.

Authorities are appealing for anyone who witnessed the crash, was in the area at the time, or has dashcam or mobile phone footage to come forward. Anyone with information is urged to contact Taree Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.