The accident, which resulted in a 49-year-old Bathurst man being airlifted to Sydney with serious injuries, occurred at 7.40am on the Hereford Street and Marsden Lane roundabout, near the Trinity Heights shops.

Inspector Lionel White said the victim remained trapped in his car for about an hour and a half before finally being freed by police rescue personnel.

The driver of the other vehicle fled the scene before emergency services arrived.

Late yesterday, police released an image of a Bathurst man they believe may be able to help with their inquiries.

“Police from Chifley crash investigation are investigating the crash and would like to speak to 36-year-old Jamie Widders, who may be able to assist with inquiries,” a police spokesperson said.

“He is described as Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander appearance, 185 to 195cm tall, of a thin build, with black hair and brown eyes.”

Earlier, police closed the road near the crash scene so an air ambulance could land about 9am.

The injured driver was transported to Westmead Hospital suffering multiple fractures and other injuries. His condition was listed as serious but stable late yesterday.

Inspector White said the victim was extremely lucky not to have been more seriously injured, as the driver took the brunt of the impact.

“The victim was already on the roundabout when his car was hit from the side,” he said.

The impact of the collision was so great police rescue had to cut the side of the car away before the victim could be removed.