A recovery operation is underway after police located the body of a man inside a submerged vehicle in Port Stephens today.
Just after 4.30am, emergency services were called to Soldiers Point boat ramp following reports of a vehicle in the water, with Police locating a white hatchback fully submerged.
The body of man, yet to be formally identified, was found inside the vehicle.
A crime scene has been established and a recovery operation is underway.
The boat ramp will be closed until late this afternoon due to the operation.
Officers from Port Stephens- Hunter Police District are being assisted by Police Rescue, Marine Area Command divers, and SES volunteers.
An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident has commenced, and a report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.