Five Timaru teenagers have died in last night’s single-car crash in Washdyke.
A sixth person, the 19 year old driver, was taken to Timaru Hospital in a serious condition, but is now in a stable condition.
Aoraki Area Commander Inspector Dave Gaskin said the car, a Nissan Bluebird Sedan, collided with a power pole at the intersection of Seadown Road and Meadows Road, shortly before 7:30pm last night.
The five teenagers, aged between 15 and 16, were deceased when emergency services arrived.
Inspector Gaskin said the car hit a power pole with such force that it broke in half, spreading debris down the road.
He said speed and alcohol were a factor.
He said one of the deceased was found in the boot of the car and all families have have been notified.
Inspector Gaskin said he personally knew one of the boy’s families.
Aoraki Area Commander Inspector Dave Gaskin. Screen shot One News
A member of the public was first on the scene and called emergency services.
The driver of the car has not been spoken to by police, but was still in hospital surrounded by family.
Inspector Gaskin said no one witnessed the crash, but is urging the public to come forward if they saw the car before the incident.
