Just before 5.30am (Friday 11 June 2021), emergency services were called to Italia Road near the Pacific Highway, Balickera, about 13km north of Raymond Terrace, after reports of a crash.

Occupants of a house nearby located a vehicle that had left the road and crashed into trees.

The male driver was treated at the scene but died a short time later. He is yet to be formally identified but is believed to be aged 26.

A crime scene has been established, which will be examined by specialist forensic police.

Officers from Port-Stephens Hunter Police District have commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.

A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.