Owhata crash victim named

Emergency services at the scene of a fatal crash on Iri Irikapua Parade. Photograph by Ben Fraser

A man found dead in a crashed car in Rotorua this morning has been identified as 21-year-old Elisha Areli from Rotorua.

A serious crash investigation is under way and police are still working on the belief that the crash occurred some time between midnight and 2am this morning.

His car, which had left the road and struck a tree, was discovered by a local resident shortly before 7am.

Police said one local resident reported hearing a loud bang sometime between midnight and 2am.

Police would like to hear from anyone who heard or saw anything which may be relevant to this crash investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Rotorua Police on 07 348 0099.

It was the second road death in the region within hours.

A man died after being struck by a vehicle in Whakatane last night.

The man was hit about 8:50pm on Keepa Rd. He died at the scene from his injuries.