Second fatal crash in days
A man has died after a car hit a pole in Normanby yesterday morning, bringing power lines down over the vehicle.
The crash happened about 8.20am on Mawhitiwhiti Rd and police, fire and ambulance staff attended.
The road was blocked while emergency services worked at the scene and Powerco contractors were called to isolate the electricity to the downed lines.
It’s the second fatal crash in Taranaki within three days and is being investigated by the police serious crash unit.
Taranaki area commander Inspector Belinda Dewar said there had been an increase in traffic on the region’s roads since the country moved to alert level three, and police were increasing their presence accordingly.
‘‘In the case of these two crashes, it is not yet known why these motorists were travelling.’’
The level-three rules were clear – no unnecessary travel outside your region, she said.
‘‘We’re also asking people to please make safe decisions about permitted recreational activity. Now is not the time to become
complacent. The rules still apply and people must adhere to them for the safety of everyone.’’
Dewar said every loss of life on the roads was a tragedy and urged motorists to drive to the conditions, especially with high winds and further rain forecast.
‘‘So, put on your seatbelt, put away your phone, watch your speed, and absolutely never drive if you are impaired by drugs, alcohol, or fatigue.’’
A police spokesperson said the person had died at the scene. The Taranaki Community Rescue Helicopter was dispatched but stood down after the patient died.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand central region shift manager Murray Dunbar confirmed a man was trapped in the vehicle and firefighters waited for contractors to turn off the power so they could cut him free.
The death follows Friday night’s two-car crash on Connett Rd, Bell Block, which led to the death of one person.
The person had been taken to Waikato Hospital by the Taranaki Community Rescue Helicopter but later died in hospital.
Police have not released the names of either of the people who died in the crashes.
‘‘In the case of these two crashes, it is not yet known why these motorists were travelling.’’
Inspector Belinda Dewar
Taranaki police area commander