Fatal crash Karaka Rd - update

Tuesday, 14 January 2014 - 3:25pm

Counties Manukau

Serious Crash Unit investigators looking into a fatal crash yesterday say it will be some time before the cause of the crash can be confirmed.  The crash involved three cars on Karaka Road (SH 22) between Blackbridge and Whangapouri Roads just before 3:30pm.

A 27 year old Pukekohe man was pronounced deceased at the scene.  His name will not be released by Police today.

At this stage the Serious Crash Unit has been able to determine that the car driven by the deceased man crossed the centre line as it travelled east from Pukekohe towards the motorway, colliding with a car heading in the opposite direction.  The third car then collided with the vehicle driven by the deceased man.

The driver of the second car, a 56 year old Pukekohe man, has been admitted to hospital with critical injuries which are expected to require extensive hospital treatement, but he is currently considered stable.  The driver of the third car, a 46 year old woman from Patumahoe, has been discharged from hospital.  Each of the three cars involved contained single occupants.

Serious Crash Unit officer in charge of the investigation Constable Bruce Wilson says all factors will be considered when analysing the crash scene.

"The crash is still under investigation but at this stage we have been able to confirm that all drivers were wearing their seatbelts and neither speed nor alcohol is thought to be a factor in the crash," he says.

"Witnesses have reported seeing the green Toyota Corolla that was involved in the crash driving erratically on SH 22 from Pukekohe towards the motorway.  We'd like to hear from anyone else who may have seen this car anywhere between Pukekohe and Karaka before 3:30pm yesterday."

The car is described as a 1991 metallic green Toyota Corolla.

Counties Manukau Police Acting Road Policing Manager Senior Sergeant Sarah Leyland says that this crash is a reminder to all drivers to stay alert on the road at all times.

"We always see more people travelling long distances at this time of year, but we urge motorists to be aware of their surroundings when travelling even a short distance," says Senior Sergeant Leyland.  "Stay alert when driving by keeping hydrated and make sure you are attentive to the maneuvres of other vehicles around you.  You should also take a rest before driving if you're feeling tired.  This crash is a tragic and regrettable loss of life and we urge everyone to take care on the road."

Anyone with information on the crash or anyone who saw the vehicle UZ7600, a 1991 metallic green Toyota Corolla on SH 22 yesterday should contact Constable Bruce Wilson of the Counties Manukau Serious Crash Unit on 09 261 1300.

ENDS

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