KEY POINTS:
A man has died and another two injured in Gisborne Hospital after an horrific crash on one of the city's main thoroughfares last night.
Greg Rex Wilson, 32, suffered chest injuries when the car he was travelling in collided with an oncoming vehicle at the intersection of Rutene Road and Maki Street at 5.45pm.
Mr Wilson was treated at the scene but died in the emergency ward later in the night.
He was a rear seat passenger with two other occupants in a car which collided with a small truck.
Police said speed was believed to have been a factor in the crash.
It was unclear whether or not seat belts were worn and indications were that the drivers had been drinking.
The serious crash unit was continuing investigations today.
An off-duty doctor and nurse were among the first on the scene and helped treat the injured while ambulances were called.
"They did a really great job and did a lot to assist us," said a St John Ambulance spokeswoman.
"It was great and we really appreciated their help."
A 40-year-old man was treated for moderate chest injuries and a 31-year-old suffered moderate facial injuries.
The 51-year-old male driver of the small truck was treated for a minor head injury.
He did not need an ambulance.
The intersection was closed to traffic for nearly three hours.
Senior Sergeant Tony Gibson said the crash served as a grim reminder that alcohol and driving did not mix.
"Coming into the Christmas season, people really need to be aware that they should not drink and drive because of what can happen," he said.
"People need to stop and think before they make the wrong choice and drive," he said.
"Get a taxi."
- NZPA
