The engine shown at far left was thrown about 35m into a paddock from the impact of the crash

Fatal collision between train and truck subject of several inquries

Thursday, 27 February 2014 - 4:44pm

National News

A fatal collision between a truck and a train at a rural level crossing in the North Waikato this morning is the subject of a number of investigations according to Police.

District Road Policing Manager, Inspector Freda Grace, said the incident occurred on Rangiriri's Te Onetea Rd about 9.45am and the cause of the crash is yet to be established.

"The crash, which claimed the life of the 28-year-old sole occupant of the truck, is currently under investigation by Kiwi Rail and the Waikato Serious Crash and Commercial Vehicle Investigation Units.

"A tragedy not only for the man's family but co-workers at work nearby, the crash has been reported to the Coroner and WorkSafe New Zealand. Victim Support were brought in and made available to the train crew and any of the passengers aboard the train in need of assistance."

While unable to comment on specifics of today's crash while it is under investigation, Mrs Grace said February through to May is traditionally quite a busy one in terms commercial vehicle crashes.

"While drivers of commercial vehicles on Waikato's roads act and drive professionally, sadly today's tragedy shows there is always a room for improvements and we ask drivers of all vehicles, big and small to do all they can to ensure our journeys are safe ones."

End

The scene of today's tragedy

Police and Kiwi Rail staff check damage to the train

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