Man Charged in February Fatal Southland Crash

Police have charged a 20-year-old man in relation to a fatal crash on Niagara-Tokanui Highway on 15 February 2025.

At around 8.35pm, Police were alerted to a single-vehicle crash where a ute had rolled between McManus Road and Quarry Hills Fortification Road.

Sadly, despite best efforts by emergency services, 20-year-old Jack Victor Hugh Stephens from Tahakopa died at the scene.

Two other occupants received serious to critical injuries.

At the time, the Serious Crash Unit conduced a scene examination and Police's investigation was established.

Today, Police charged a 20-year-old man in relation to the incident.

He is due to appear in Gore District Court on Wednesday 30 July 2025, charged with manslaughter.

As the matter is before the courts, Police are unable to provide further information in relation to the matter.

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