In releasing the name of the region's latest pedestrian fatality Waikato Police hope the publicity will bring pressure to ensure no more names are added to the list.
Waikato Road Policing Manager, Inspector Leo Tooman, said 27-year-old Hamilton man, Rowan Fraser HUMFFREYS died after he was struck by an oncoming taxi van as he stood in the road on Thackeray St about 3.30am yesterday.
"Mr HUMFFREYS' death was the third pedestrian fatality in the Central City so far this year and the fourth in Hamilton overall while at the same time he was the seventh pedestrian to die on Waikato roads over the same period.
"But all these figures are numbers, behind the numbers are names that belong to people who have families who will all be missing loved ones this Christmas."
Mr Tooman said Police will be placing special emphasis on driver compliance in the City as we head into the busy summer period however pedestrians needed to take responsibility as well.
"We'll be concentrating on speed and red light runners or those who fail to stop or give way however pedestrians can help make their environment safer by crossing at controlled intersections or pedestrian crossings and wearing bright clothing.
"Several of our pedestrian deaths in the Waikato have happened at night and also involved victims who had been drinking, not only do we need to avoid drinking and driving we need to consider the wisdom of walking on the road after having a few drinks."
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