Title: Two killed in Edgecumbe crash

At approximately 11pm last night (Tuesday, 19 February) emergency services attended a double fatal road crash on Main Street, Edgecumbe in the Eastern Bay of Plenty.

Initial enquiries indicate a Subaru car travelling north failed to negotiate a moderate right-hand bend and as a result the vehicle crossed the centre line colliding with a tree.

The driver, a 19-year-old local man, and front seat passenger, a 25-year-old local man, both died from injuries sustained in the crash.

Police are appealing for witnesses who may have seen the white coloured Subaru vehicle on Main Street immediately prior to the crash are asked to contact either the Edgecumbe Police on 07 304 9004 or the Whakatane Police on 07 308 5255.

Neither man was wearing a seatbelt, the wrong class of driver's licence was held, and speed is also believed to be a contributory factor. Further analysis is required to determine whether alcohol is a factor in this crash.

The names of the men are expected to be released later this afternoon once next of kin have been advised.

The matter has been referred to the coroner.

ENDS

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