Drivers named in double truck crash

Scene of the double fatal crash between two light trucks on SH 26, between between Hamilton and Morrinsville. Photo / Stephen Barker

Investigations are underway into how two light trucks managed to collide head-on in the Waikato early this morning.

The drivers of both trucks were killed and a passenger injured after the smash near Morrinsville.

Emergency services were called to the crash on State Highway 26, near the intersection of Badger Close, about 7.20am.

Police said both men driving the trucks died of their injuries.

The drivers were Hugh Leonard Ferguson, a 61-year-old man from Hamilton, and Jarrad Malcom Townsend, a 32-year-old man from Tauranga.

An 18-year-old passenger in one of the trucks suffered minor injuries and was taken to Waikato Hospital but later released.

The road was closed while a scene examination was conducted.

The police serious crash unit is investigating and enquiries will focus on what caused the west bound truck to cross the centre line into the path of the other truck.