Wollongong Police Acting Inspector Dave Parker said the Lake Heights teen was travelling south along the Princes Highway at Fairy Meadow at around 11.20pm.

The P-plater’s car ran off the road just south of the roundabout at the Mount Ousley Road intersection.

The white Mazda 6 hatchback crashed into a tree and a signpost near the Wild Bean Cafe at the BP petrol station.

People from the nearby McDonald’s rushed across to the scene to try and offer first aid, Supt Parker said.

“Unfortunately, as a result of the collision the male died at the scene,” Supt Parker said.

“He was trapped in the vehicle for some time. He was freed by Police Rescue but unfortunately he was deceased on impact.”

The impact badly damaged the car and caused a spray of debris, with chunks of concrete flung into the Wild Bean glass frontage. 

A woman arrived at the crash site soon afterwards with family members on Wednesday night and was stopped at the police tape, where she remained, crying out in distress. 

Supt Parker said police were still unsure of exactly what had happened in the lead-up to the accident, but they would be calling on CCTV footage from the petrol station and other businesses along the Princes Highway as part of their investigation.

“We’re following a number of lines of inquiry,” Supt Parker said.

“We are appealing to any witness that saw the white Mazda 6 hatchback travelling in the area shortly before, just to get any idea if anyone’s seen the manner of driving.”

At this stage it was unclear whether Mr Kartoumeh was alone or driving with other cars at the time.

Supt Parker said police were investigating whether speed was a factor in the crash.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.

Any witnesses to the crash can contact Wollongong Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.