1 dead, 2 in hospital after car crashes into Hawke’s Bay’s Wairoa River

The vehicle was reported as having gone into the river around 4am.

A person has been found dead after a vehicle crashed into Hawke’s Bay’s Wairoa River in the early hours of this morning.

The deceased person was found in the water outside the vehicle, police said.

The serious crash took place near the intersection of Carroll St and River Parade in Wairoa about 4.10am.

Two other people were taken from the scene to hospital.

Police and emergency teams have been at the scene all morning but now believe they’ve found everyone who had been in the vehicle.

“While there is not believed to be anyone else outstanding, the Police National Dive Squad will attend to inspect the vehicle,” a spokeswoman said.

St John said it sent a helicopter and ambulance to the crash site at 4.12am.

“Our crews assessed and treated two patients in a moderate condition who were transported to Wairoa Hospital,” it said.

Police said cordons were in place while emergency teams continued their work.

“Motorists should avoid the area if possible.”

Fire and Emergency New Zealand confirmed staff were at the scene after a car was reported as having gone into the Wairoa River about 4am.

“I can confirm there was a vehicle in the river,” a spokesperson said.

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