Alleged coughing incident.

An investigation is underway after two people were coughed on by an unknown man in the state’s Hunter Region yesterday.

Just before 2pm (Sunday 12 April 2020), a 73-year-old man and a 68-year-old woman were walking along Victoria Parade, Nelson Bay, and as they approached the pedestrian crossing, a white Nissan Navara slowed and pulled up beside them.

Police have been told that a man leaned his head and shoulders out of the passenger window and coughed – making a retching sound – over the couple.

He and the other occupants in the vehicle started laughing before the vehicle drove off.

The couple contacted police and officers from Port Stephens/Hunter Police District commenced an investigation.

As their inquiries continue, police are appealing for information from the community to locate the vehicle and identify the occupants at the time of the incident.

In particular, investigators would like to speak with a man who they believe may be able to assist with their inquiries.

He is described as being of Caucasian appearance with tanned skin, aged in his late teens or early 20s, with short, dark, curly hair. He was last seen wearing a red and dark-coloured checkered top.

Police are urging anyone with information, including dash cam from the area around the time of the incident, to contact Nelson Bay police as soon as possible.

Anyone who has information regarding individuals or businesses in contravention of a COVID-19-related ministerial direction is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: http://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report crime via NSW Police social media pages.