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An unlicensed driver will front court accused of hitting a traffic controller while behind the wheel of a stolen car at Jesmond in the early hours of this morning.
The alleged incident occurred on Newcastle Road at about 2 o’clock, just moments after police initiated a pursuit of a Silver Mercedes Benz SUV, which had been reported stolen from Salt Ash and was allegedly seen speeding by officers.
In a statement, a NSW Police spokesperson said officers immediately rendered assistance to the injured woman before the arrival of NSW Ambulance paramedics.
The 21-year-old female traffic control worker sustained pelvic injuries and was taken to the John Hunter Hospital where she is undergoing surgery.
The alleged driver of the stolen SUV, a 30-year-old man, was arrested a short time later on Kiah Street and taken to Waratah Police Station.
A crime scene was established by Newcastle City Police with officers from the Hunter Crash Investigation Unit conducting inquiries into the incident.
During a subsequent search of the man, police allegedly located and seized methamphetamine with an estimated potential street value of almost $2000.
The Killingworth man was charged with eight offences, including;
• Aggravated dangerous driving occasioning grievous bodily harm – escaping pursuit
• Dangerous driving occasioning grievous bodily harm – drive manner dangerous
• Cause bodily harm by misconduct, in charge of motor vehicle
• Take and drive conveyance without consent of owner
• Drive recklessly/furiously or speed/manner dangerous
• Police pursuit – not stop – drive dangerously • Possess prohibited drug, and
• Licence expired more than two years ago.
He was refused bail to appear before Newcastle Local Court today.