Boy struck by 4WD after leaving school bus

A 12 year old boy received serious injuries after being struck by a 4WD vehicle on Atawhai Drive in Nelson this afternoon.

At about 3.10 p.m. this afternoon a north bound school bus stopped by Corder Park on Atawhai Crescent to let off passengers. One of the children from the school bus ran out into the road in front of the school bus while the school bus was still stationary at the side of the road. The child was struck by an Izusu Bighorn 4WD vehicle as it was passing the school bus.

The child was transported by St John Ambulance to Nelson Public Hospital. Police are unable to comment on the condition of the child but the injuries were believed to be serious.

Both the driver of the Izusu Bighorn 4WD vehicle and school bus were breath tested even though alcohol was not suspected and was not a factor in the incident.

Police are unable to comment on speed of the Izusu Bighorn 4WD vehicle because enquiries into the circumstances of the incident are continuing. The driver and passenger in the Izusu Bighorn 4WD vehicle and witnesses at the scene have still to be spoken to by investigators. The Izusu Bighorn 4WD vehicle has been seized for an inspection and a scene examination has still to be completed.

At this stage the Police are unable to advise whether there will be any charges.

The speed limit for vehicle for passing a school bus in either direction is 20 kilometres per hour.