Emergency services responded to a vehicle submersion at Audley Weir in the Royal National Park, south of Sydney, at approximately 1:15 am on Wednesday.
Incident
Two vehicles were involved in the incident. Police allege a blue Audi struck a silver Mercedes, driven by an 18-year-old man, before the Audi entered the water and became submerged.
Casualties
The Audi's passenger, a 20-year-old man, died at the scene. Police divers recovered his body from the vehicle, though formal identification is pending.
The Audi's 20-year-old male driver escaped the vehicle and reached safety. No casualties have been reported from the Mercedes.
Investigation
Both drivers are in custody and being interviewed at Sutherland Police Station. A passenger from the Mercedes is voluntarily providing information to police.
The drivers were taken to hospital for mandatory testing. A roadside blood alcohol test was negative. No charges have been filed.
Police are investigating whether the two cars were racing, but the cause of the crash has not been confirmed. The investigation includes a mechanical examination of the Audi.
Police noted that divers were delayed due to an ongoing investigation into a separate incident in South Ballina and low nighttime visibility, which prevented entry into the water until first light.
"Police divers were delayed due to a separate incident and low nighttime visibility, preventing water entry until first light."
Traffic Advisory
Audley Road at Audley Weir is closed in both directions. Motorists are advised to avoid the area and use alternative routes. Police have established a crime scene.