A man accused of being behind the wheel when a speeding car crashed and split in half, killing two teenage passengers, allegedly never held a driver’s licence.

The 27-year-old was arrested at Wetherill Park Police Station on Tuesday afternoon, more than 24 hours after the grey Ford Falcon sedan hit a tree and power pole in southwest Sydney.

He has been charged with nine offences, including two counts of aggravated dangerous driving occasioning death and failing to render aid after the deadly crash at Ashcroft on Monday morning.

Police allege the car he was driving was travelling at more than 45km/h over the speed limit of 50km/h on the suburban street before it veered onto the footpath.

The Sadleir man has also been accused of driving the car despite never holding a licence.

He and a 23-year-old man were initially taken to Liverpool Hospital under police guard following their arrests for assessment of injuries allegedly sustained during the crash.

The older man was charged following his release from hospital.

The crash sparked a day-long manhunt after two men were seen freeing themselves from the wreckage and leaving the scene, where the bodies of the two boys, aged 13 and 14, lay.

The boys’ families issued a statement on Tuesday night.

“Both of our families are still in shock and devastated over yesterday’s tragic crash,” it said.

“We are continuing to come to terms with the loss of our much-loved son and brother.

“We ask for privacy at this time and we will not be conducting any media interviews while the police investigation continues.”

The 27-year-old man was refused bail to appear before Liverpool Local Court on Wednesday.

No charges have yet been laid against the second arrested man and police said their investigation into the crash was ongoing.