Waikato Police investigating the death of an 18-year-old man in a single vehicle crash outside Otorohanga yesterday morning are investigating what part speed and alcohol played in the incident.
Waikato Road Policing Manager, Inspector Leo Tooman, said crash investigators were still working to establish what happened but initial indications were Christopher Jarrod RALPH, lost control of his Mazda sedan as it approached a one lane bridge.
"The car has slewed into the barrier of the bridge on Mangawhero Rd before rolling on to it's roof, we're currently trying to determine how long he may have been there as the road is a quiet one, he was last seen leaving a bar in Otorohanga about 12.30am and was found about 3am."
Treated for his injuries by ambulance staff at the scene Mr RALPH died on route to Waikato Hospital and his death has been reported to the Coroner.
Mr RALPH'S death brings the Waikato's road toll to 12 compared to seven for the same period last year and Mr Tooman urged drivers to observe the fatal five driving factors.
"Those factors are speed, alcohol, seatbelts, dangerous and reckless driving and it appears two played a part in the tragic loss of this young man's life.
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