Bethlehem fatal - bystanders try to save life

Fatal motorbike crash on Carmichael Road. Photo/George Novak

Bystanders of a serious crash in Bethlehem tried to help save the life of a Tauranga man who died at the scene last night, and police are this morning calling for help from anyone else who might have witnessed the fatal.

The 26-year-old motorcyclist was travelling with his partner, also riding a motorcycle, along a straight section of Carmichael Rd about 6.55pm when the crash occurred.

Police Senior Sergeant Phil Gillbanks said the front motorcyclist ''crashed heavily'' into a car outside the entrance to Bethlehem Country Club.

Early scene examinations and witness statements indicated two motorcyclists were travelling from the direction of Bethlehem Road toward Millers Road, Mr Gillbanks said.

Mr Gillbanks said witnesses and passersby attempted to administer first aid, however the rider sadly died immediately at the scene.

She is naturally extremely upset and is being cared for by family and friends.

Senior Sergeant Phil Gillbanks

The man's partner managed to stop short of the crash.

She is naturally extremely upset and is being cared for by family and friends, Mr Gillbanks said.

The driver of the Peugeot, an 84 year old Tauranga woman, was taken to Tauranga Hospital for treatment.

Serious Crash investigators have conducted an initial scene examination and enquiries are continuing to establish further details as to the exact cause of the incident. The road way has now been reopened to traffic.

Police would like to speak with any witnesses to this crash who have not yet been spoken to by police and ask them to contact Tauranga police on (07) 5774300.

Police ask all drivers to take more care on the roads. It is imperative that drivers concentrate at all times while driving, ensuring that road way is clear before proceeding across intersections or across the path of oncoming traffic. We remind drivers to ensure that they always drive to the set speed limits, and are constantly aware of their ever changing surroundings. This is yet another tragic event on our roads which could easily have been prevented.