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A father and mother were killed in a fatal crash that critically injured three of their children and another motorist in Otago.
Emergency services were called to the State Highway 1 crash, between the intersections with Titri and Bungards Rds, at 12.15pm on Monday.
The couple are Andrew Francis Sheehanand Kreshar Dannielle Sheehan. Their children were taken to Dunedin Hospital. Their fourth child was not travelling with them. Andrew Sheehan also has three children from a previous relationship.
Andrew and Kreshar Sheehan died in Monday's crash. Photo / Facebook
The Te Kuiti couple, who have a joint Facebook page, posted a photo of the pair about two hours before the crash, smiling and embracing each other at a skifield. One of their friends wished Kreshar a happy birthday for the day prior.
A family spokesperson shared a tribute with the Herald that had been sent to family and friends.
“It is with a heavy heart that we share the sudden passing of our beautiful Kreshar Dannielle Sheehan and our beloved Andrew Francis Sheehan.
“We thank those who have reached out already and those who have kept our family in your prayers. It has been an overwhelming response and no words can articulate how grateful we are for the outpour of love and support.
“We ask for your patience as we navigate the next few days as a family before we make an announcement of upcoming services.”
Andrew Sheehan was a sales consultant at 4 Guys Autobarn. Chief executive Monte Wells told the Herald the couple were “devoted parents and their family always came first”.
“They participated in each child’s development and Andrew spoke proudly of each child’s achievements. Typically when this tragedy happened, they were on a family trip and here at his workplace, we all received numerous social media clips of their activities. As a couple, they embraced their marriage and were constantly in touch.”
Andrew Sheehan had a “unique sales ability”, Wells said.
“He was learned, intelligent, funny, energetic, challenging, committed, and had constant impressive sales figures.
“He was a legend, he will be sorely missed, a great work colleague, and a better friend. He had a beautiful beguiling smile and laugh. He was charismatic. We all feel very empty.”
Te Kuiti High School principal Gareth Williams confirmed a student’s family was involved in the crash.
“At this time our thoughts are with the family. Our focus is with the family and being there to support as needed. I don’t have all the details at this time. We will also be supporting any students that have been affected by this terrible and tragic event.”
The crash was on State Highway 1 north of Waihola, Otago, on Monday.
Police yesterday asked anyone who saw the crash, assisted at the scene, or may have information that could help, to come forward.
A Hato Hone St John spokesman earlier said three people in a critical condition and one seriously injured person had been taken to Dunedin Hospital.
Police said they were called to the crash on State Highway 1, north of Waihola about 12.15pm. Photo / Otago Daily Times
Helicopters Otago pilot and chief executive Graeme Gale said the crash was “an absolute tragedy”.
“I didn’t see it happen, but it looked horrific,” she said.
“I don’t know how it would have happened as it was right on the brow of the hill, so no one should have been considering passing.”
Anyone with information about the crash can get in touch with police via 105 or online at www.police.govt.nz/use-105, using Update My Report, referencing file number 230828/5647.
