Three killed in crash involving car and tanker, Desert Road State Highway 1 reopened from Rangipo to Waiōuru
The crash happened just before midnight on Monday but SH1 remained closed seven hours later. Image / NZTA
Three people have been killed in a crash between a car and a tanker truck on State Highway 1 overnight.
Police said the crash happened around 11.50pm, about 5km north of Waiōuru.
All three people in the car died, while the truck driver suffered moderate injuries.
The Desert Rd has now reopened after being closed between Rangipo and Waiōuru for more than seven hours overnight.
Whanganui Area Commander Inspector Neil Forlong said the loss of three lives was heartbreaking.
“Our initial inquiries show the car has likely crossed the centre line just before the crash, but why that occurred is a focus of our investigation.”
A helicopter was sent to help search the area as there were initial fears that a fourth person had been in the vehicle, but that had been ruled out.
Forlong acknowledged the fast response from emergency crews “who faced a tough scene”.
“Crashes like this are devastating for the families involved, and the community and police will continue to support those affected by this tragedy.”
The Serious Crash Unit has completed a scene examination and the road has now reopened.
A Fire and Emergency spokesman confirmed the service had attended the crash but referred queries to police.
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