31 Jul 2019

Four killed in Bay of Plenty van and truck collision named

3:13 pm on 31 July 2019

Police have named the four people killed when their van collided with a logging truck in a Bay of Plenty forest.

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Photo: Supplied / NZ police

They were 22-year-old Storm Lacy, 35-year-old Steven Pari, 25-year-old Te Tahi Brass, and 37-year-old Johston Ahuriri.

They were all from Murupara and their families have requested privacy.

Police and WorkSafe are still investigating Monday morning's crash in the Kaingaroa Forest.

Forestry company Timberlands said the men worked for a contractor to the company.

WorkSafe said the investigation will take some months.

Forestry company Timberlands confirmed the men worked for a contractor to the company.

Timberlands chief executive Robert Green yesterday said that the men were valued members of the company's wider forestry team.

He said like everyone else in the area, the company was shocked and saddened by what happened.

Mr Green said the company passed on its condolences to the families, whānau, and to everyone affected by the crash.