14 May 2020

Man faces dangerous driving charges after deaths of two sisters

3:44 pm on 14 May 2020

A man has been charged over a fatal crash in Christchurch's Port Hills last year.

Sisters Tayla, left, and Sunmara Alexander died after a fiery Christchurch crash on 25 November.

Sisters Tayla, left, and Sunmara Alexander died after a fiery Christchurch crash last November. Photo: Supplied via NZ Herald

Seventeen-year-old Tayla Alexander died in the crash that occurred on the Summit Road on 27 November, and her 16-year-old sister, Sunmara, died in hospital two weeks later, after suffering critical injuries.

The police have charged a 19-year-old man with two counts of dangerous driving causing death, as well as dangerous driving causing injury and driving without the appropriate licence.

"This was a devastating event and a tragic reminder to all drivers of the need to drive safely and to the conditions," said Canterbury Metro Area Commander Lane Todd.

"Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of Tayla and Sunmara as they continue to grieve the loss of their loved ones."

The man is due to appear at the Christchurch District Court on 28 May.

At the beginning of the year, the father of the two young women delivered a petition to the Christchurch City Council calling on authorities to improve safety on Summit Road.