Name released in Christchurch cycle fatality

Canterbury, 2 April 2014 - Police have confirmed the identity of a cyclist killed in a crash on Lincoln Road, Christchurch, this morning.

She was Sharla Phyllis Haerewa, aged 22, a student nurse from Christchurch. It is believed she was cycling to work at Christchurch Hospital at time of the crash.

Police crash investigators say it appears that a heavy truck and the cyclist had both been travelling north-east towards the city on Lincoln Road when the crash occurred at around 6.30am today.

The truck turned left from Lincoln Road into an unnamed road opposite Domain Terrace, but turned directly into the path of the cyclist, with the front of the truck striking the cycle side-on.

The truck continued around the corner, knocking the cyclist from her bike and dragging the cycle nearly 40 metres before coming to a stop. The cyclist died at the scene.

Initial enquiries indicate that the cyclist was wearing a reflective cover and flashing LED light on her backpack, and had working lights to the front and rear of the cycle.

Police are considering whether charges will be laid against the driver of the truck, a man aged in his 70s.

The fatality is the third fatal crash on Canterbury roads this year, and the first cycle fatality since July 2013.

Police say the fatality is a tragic but timely reminder for all motorists to make sure they are actively aware of other road users at all times.

ENDS

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