Boating fatality, Waikato River, Waiuku. 25 July 2009
Sunday 26 July 2009, 3:21PM
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A 21 year old Waiuku man was killed when the boat he was a passenger in collided with a tree on the Waikato River near Waiuku about 9.30 pm last night.
Ross Irwin and 3 friends left a Bach located on the river in a small power boat.
After travelling about 200metres the boat crashed onto the river bank and struck a large tree.
A branch smashed across the windscreen and bow section, extensively damaging the boat.
Ross Irwin received serious injuries and was transported by another boat to the shore where he was pronounced deceased.
The boat skipper and remaining passengers sustained moderate injuries.
The deceased is a 21 year man residing in Waiuku. The other occupants also reside in the town.
Pukekohe Police in conjunction with Maritime New Zealand are investigating.
The other occupants were to upset to talk to Police and Police are unsure why the vessel left the water. Conditions at the time have been described as misty in patches, Police also suspect alcohol may have been a factor.