'We are broken beyond repair': Dad killed in Gisborne crash that injured 11
The victim of a fatal van crash near Gisborne that also injured 11 others was “working for his kids, but will never make it home to them”, a person close to the man has written online.
One person died and 11 were hurt, five seriously, in the single-vehicle crash on Wharekopae Rd in Pātūtahi, 14km west of Gisborne, about 5.20pm yesterday.
A person close to the victim wrote on Facebook that he was “one of ours ... who was working for his kids but will never make it home to them”.
Those involved in the crash, which sparked a massive emergency response including three helicopters and five ambulances, are believed to be forestry workers.
The person close to the dead man also wrote on Instagram that “we lost a great hardworking humble brother son dad and friend”, with many more injured and still in hospital.
“Please be mindful and show aroha as we navigate life right now ... we are broken beyond repair.”
They also asked for “time and love” for the injured and their families.
“Our guys are broken in body and mind ... we have so many families affected by this horrible accident.”
Crash sparks major emergency response
A Hato Hone St John spokesperson said last night 11 people were taken to Gisborne Hospital after the crash, five in a serious condition, and three each in moderate and minor conditions.
They sent three helicopters, five ambulances, two rapid response units, two operations managers and a major incident support team. Police and Fire and Emergency New Zealand crews were also at the scene.
The crash happened about 5.20pm yesterday. Photo / Google Earth
Anyone who witnessed the crash or has information about it should contact Gisborne Police directly, or via 105, quoting P066755884, police said.
Nearby resident Barry McLaughlin, who has lived in the area for 20 years, drove past the scene at the corner of Kirkpatrick and Wharekopae Rds shortly after the crash.
He told the Herald he saw police and members of the public assisting several patients.
The vehicle appeared to be a white Toyota Hiace van, McLaughlin said.
Multiple people were injured in the crash on Wharekopae Rd near Pātūtahi. Photo / Google
The road is notorious for crashes, McLaughlin said.
A Fire and Emergency shift manager said a vehicle went off the road.
No one was trapped after the crash, the shift manager said.
Fire and Emergency’s response included one crew from Pātūtahi, two crews from Gisborne and an additional team providing support.
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