An 88-year-old male from Huonville has died following a two-vehicle collision on the Huon Highway at Grove in the vicinity of the 1469 Huon Highway.

The crash occurred at approximately 1.30pm after the male, who was driving a silver Toyota Yaris failed to negotiate a right-hand bend in the road whilst travelling north towards Kingston. “Initial investigations suggest that as the vehicle exited the right hand bend, the driver continued with right hand steering input causing the vehicle to cross into the path of a south bound Volkswagen Station wagon. Impact between the two-vehicle occurred in the south bound lane” said Acting Sergeant HALL of Crash Investigation Services.

The male was removed from the vehicle by SES and Ambulance Tasmania Paramedics however he died a short time later whilst being conveyed to the Royal Hobart Hospital. The 76-year-old female passenger in the vehicle was conveyed to the Royal Hobart Hospital with minor injuries only.

The southbound black Volkswagen was being driven by a 50-year-old Risdon woman who had an adult male and two children in the vehicle at the time of the collision. All four occupants were uninjured. “Speed or the use of alcohol or drugs is not suspected as being contributing factors in the collision. Investigations are continuing as to why the vehicle crossed to the incorrect side of the road” said Acting Sergeant Hall.

Police, Ambulance Tasmania, TFS and SES all attended the scene. Huon Highway was closed for approximately 45 minutes whilst Police Forensic and Crash Investigation Services personnel investigated the scene.

Anyone who observed the vehicles prior to the collision is asked to contact Acting Sergeant Adam HALL at Southern Crash Investigation Services on 131444 or by contacting Crime Stoppers.

Tasmania Police express their sincere condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.