Youth killed in Otago crash

A youth died in a three-car crash on State Highway One in Otago today, police said.

Senior Sergeant Lane Todd, of Balclutha said it appeared the youth was the passenger in one of three vehicles involved in the crash 5km north of Milton.

"'Emergency services had a large scene to contend with, which included a total of nine occupants from the vehicles, three injuries ranged from serious to moderate," Mr Todd said.

The accident happened about 12.10 this morning, he said.

All of the injured were taken to Dunedin Hospital.

State Highway One has been closed at the crash site, with traffic being diverted down a side road. The highway is expected to be closed until mid morning.

"Police are investigating the cause of the crash and expect to be at the scene for several hours with crash experts," Mr Todd said.

Police have not yet released the youth's details until family members have been informed.

- NZPA