Major Crash detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal crash near Batchelor yesterday afternoon.
Just after midday, emergency services responded to reports of a two-vehicle crash on the Stuart Highway, approximately 2.4 kilometres north of the Batchelor Road turnoff.
A silver Subaru SUV travelling northbound lost control and travelled into the oncoming lanes, colliding with a southbound white Mazda utility.
Detective Senior Sergeant Brendan Lindner said "Due to the collision impact, the Forester was torn in two and consequently the driver was ejected from the vehicle."
A witness to the incident stopped and rendered assistance however, the 19-year-old male driver was declared deceased at the scene.
The driver of the Mazda, an 82-year-old female, was treated at the scene by St John Ambulance before being taken to Royal Darwin Hospital via CareFlight.
A section of the highway was shut for the remainder of the day while detectives examined the scene and the road was reopened later that night.
Tragically during the festive season, the number of lives lost on our roads increases said Det. SSGT Lindner.
"It saddens us to deliver such devastating news to a family at this time of year."
Anyone who witnessed the incident and has not yet spoken to police, is urged to contact them on 131 444. Please quote reference number 10199724.
A report will now be prepared for the Coroner.
In a separate matter, an investigation into a fatal crash in the East Arnhem Region which occurred in September, has been finalised. The circumstances of the crash have determined the incident to be counted towards the number of lives lost on NT roads, which now sits at 50.
