Emegency Services were called to a fatal car crash yesterday afternoon on Napier Road, Havelock North.
The crash happened shortly after 3pm and involved two vehcles, a van travelling south towards Havelock North and a Mazda Demio travelling north.
Witnesses to the crash report the van crossing the centreline just before a heavy collision that resulted in the death of the occupant of the Mazda.
The name of the deceased is Frances Ada Burden, aged 87 years of Havelock North.
The driver of the van a 20 year old local man was admitted to Hawkes Bay Regional Hospital with a broken leg.
The crash occurred in an 80km/hr zone approximately 100m north of where Napier Road changes to a 50km/hr. The road was closed for 4 hours during the attendance at the crash and subsequent scene examination.
The initial investigation reveals the road was dry and that excessive speed and alcohol were not factors in the crash.
Senior Sergeant Greg Brown said, " Serious Crash investgatros attended the scene and will continue to investigate all aspects of the crash including whether fatigue and/or distraction were contributing factors."
"It's an absolute tragedy that on a seemingly innocuous stretch of road that the absolute worst outcome resulted. Now a family has to deal with the tragic loss of a mother and grandmother," Mr Brown said, " The crash highlights the need for all drivers to be alert and focus on their driving. Even with relatively low speeds involved, fatalities and serious injury can result."
" With our Safer Summer campaign, local Police will continue a strong focus on speed, seatbelts, alcohol and distraction in an effort to reduce the harm occurring on our roads. I urge drivers to drive responsibly so we can all enjoy a safer summer with our families."
Media enquiries to Senior Sergeant Greg Brown, Hawkes Bay Area Road Policing Manager on 021 192 3741