Charges likely after fatal Nelson smash

File photo / Hawkes Bay Today

Police say charges are likely after a 21-year-old man was killed and four people were injured in a two-car smash in Nelson last night.

The man from Hope, near Richmond, died at the scene after one car turned in front of another and collided at the intersection of Main Rd, Stoke, and Ranui Rd shortly before 7pm, Sergeant Shane Miles of Nelson police said.

It was not yet known whether the man, who was a passenger, was travelling in the front or back seat.

Four people travelling in the two cars were taken to Nelson Hospital but their injuries were not thought to be life-threatening, Mr Miles said.

"Sadly it would seem that speed, alcohol and not wearing a seat belt were all factors in this accident," he said.

Nelson CIB and the serious crash unit were investigating.

"It is likely that charges will follow for one of the drivers involved, but we're in the early stages of our investigation," Mr Miles said.

- NZPA