11 July 2011
A schoolboy critically injured while crossing a busy Hamilton road last month died in hospital overnight.
Shaun MALTHUS, 13, of Hamilton, had been in Waikato Hospital since being struck down by a car as he crossed Ruakura Rd, near the entrance to Innovation Park, about 8.15am on Thursday 30 June.
Acting Waikato Road Policing Manager, Senior Sergeant Jeff Penno, said Police had interviewed the 17-year-old male driver of the car that hit Mr MALTHUS and he was cooperating with Police.
"The matter is still under investigation by the Waikato Serious Crash Unit and this will determine what, if any, charges may result from the incident.
"Regardless of culpability this is an absolute tragedy, a young man has lost his life and all road deaths are preventable. We need the community to embrace this and say enough is enough."
Family spokesperson, aunt Karyn Malthus, said the family was deeply saddened by Shaun's death.
"We are grateful for the support we have received from the public in dealing with this matter and would now ask for privacy as we grieve for our loss."
Mr MALTHUS' death brings the Waikato road toll to 30 compared to 29 for the same period last year.
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