4WD driver likely to face charges after girl's death

The man who drove a 4WD through a safety barrier on Mt Wellington, killing 9-year-old Britney Abbott and seriously injuring a 4-year-old girl, is likely to face charges.

The 28-year-old man, who was related to the two girls, was also injured in the crash but was still conscious - despite being flung from the car - when emergency services arrived.

Detective Senior Sergeant Peter Florence said police hoped to speak to the man in hospital last night, but it would be some time before the investigation was complete.

Sunday's crash happened at roughly the same time police were called to a Mt Wellington address where a person outlined fears for the girls' safety.

Police were advised shortly after 3.30pm that there had been a domestic incident at the address earlier in the day.

The man had left with the children an hour or two earlier. As police were taking a statement at the address, they received the call about the crash on Mt Wellington.

The mountain yesterday remained cordoned off to the public as police continued their scene examination.

The 4WD rolled at least 100m down the slope before coming to rest in bush, making it difficult to examine.

The wreckage is expected to be removed this afternoon, either by crane or helicopter.

Witnesses say they saw the vehicle speed past at up to 80km/h before crashing through the safety barrier.