BREAKING NEWS: Off-Duty Police Officer Helps Crack Nelson Bay Hit-and-Run
An off-duty police officer has played a key role in identifying a vehicle linked to a shocking alleged fail-to-stop crash in Nelson Bay that left a beloved family dog dead.
The incident occurred just before 9am on Tuesday, 13 January 2026, when a 71-year-old man was walking his dog, Lulu, along Stockton Street near the Church Street roundabout.
Police allege the man had paused at the pedestrian traffic island before continuing to cross the road, when a vehicle entered the roundabout and clipped him. The vehicle then allegedly struck his eight-year-old dog, killing Lulu instantly.
The driver is alleged to have failed to stop, sparking an urgent investigation by officers from the Port Stephens–Hunter Police District.
In a major breakthrough, an off-duty police officer travelling to work on Wednesday, 14 January, spotted a vehicle with damage consistent with the crash at a mechanic in Anna Bay. Police attended the location and seized the vehicle for further examination.
Following inquiries, officers attended a home in Anna Bay at about 12.15pm today (Thursday, 15 January), where they spoke with a 65-year-old man.
The man’s driver licence has now been suspended, and police say traffic enforcement action will be taken as the investigation continues.
The incident has sparked outrage in the local community, with many calling for tougher penalties for drivers who flee crash scenes.