The NT road toll now stands at 16 following a fatal single vehicle crash approximately 12kms north of Katherine today.

Officer In Charge of Northern Traffic Operations, Senior Constable First Class Mark Soligo, said the incident was reported to Police at around 11.52am.

“The 74-year-old driver appears to have failed to negotiate a right hand sweeping bend, and the vehicle has left the road, colliding with a tree.   

“On arrival at the scene, it became apparent that the driver was trapped, and NT Fire and Rescue Service personnel worked to cut the man free.

“Unfortunately the male did not survive his injuries. He was the sole occupant of the vehicle.

“At the early stage of the investigation we do not believe speed or alcohol to be contributing factors.

“Investigations into the exact cause of the crash are continuing and a file will now be prepared for the Coroner.”

At this time last year, the NT road toll stood at 17.