Gisborne crash causes damage in Taruheru Cemetery

Statement to be attributed to Inspector Sam Aberahama,Tairāwhiti Area Commander:
 
Gisborne Police were notified of a single-vehicle crash on Nelson Road, Makauri, just after 6.30pm tonight (Tuesday).
 
The vehicle left the road and rolled before coming to a stop in Taruheru Cemetery.
 
The sole occupant of the vehicle received minor injuries and was taken by private vehicle to hospital for treatment.
 
A significant number of headstones nearest to the road have been damaged as a result of this crash.
 
We appreciate that hearing this news will cause distress for those who have whānau buried at this cemetery and we have been in contact with the Gisborne District Council (GDC) tonight in relation to this damage. 
 
GDC is going through a process of identification of the headstones and will be contacting the whānau of the affected headstones. We advise anyone with questions to contact GDC on 06 869 2447.
 
A Kaumātua will also be at the cemetery in the morning to bless the site.
 
Police will provide any assistance required by the GDC in the coming days in relation to this matter.
 
The area will remain cordoned off overnight and under guard.
 
Police enquiries into the cause of the crash are ongoing.
 
ENDS
 
Issued by Police Media Centre.