A woman in her 30s died Friday in a fiery crash on Buchanan Road after her vehicle fled police and hit a pole.

A woman in her 30s died Friday, October 3, 2025, after her vehicle crashed into a telegraph pole and caught fire on Buchanan Road in Buchanan, Hunter Valley. NSW Police responded to a pursuit attempt around 10:45 a.m., during which the vehicle briefly stopped before fleeing. The car later crashed and ignited, killing the sole occupant. Her identity has not been formally confirmed. A critical incident investigation has been launched by Newcastle City police, with an independent review by the Professional Standards Command and oversight from the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission. A report will be submitted to the coroner.