A man has tragically died following a three-vehicle crash on the New England Highway in Liddell, Upper Hunter.
Emergency services were called to the scene just before midnight after reports of a collision involving two cars and a truck.
Hunter Valley Police District officers confirmed the male driver of a green sedan, whose age is currently unknown, died at the scene. Formal identification is yet to take place, and a report will be prepared for the Coroner.
The 22-year-old female driver of a silver sedan was trapped in her vehicle but was freed by Fire and Rescue NSW. She was treated at the scene before being airlifted to John Hunter Hospital in serious condition.
The truck driver, a man in his 40s, was uninjured and taken to Muswellbrook Hospital for mandatory testing.
A crime scene has been established as investigations into the cause of the crash continue.
The New England Highway remains closed in both directions near Pikes Gully Road, with diversions in place. Motorists are advised to check Live Traffic NSW for updates.