A 59-year-old male from North Hobart has died following a two-vehicle crash which occurred on Risdon Road, New Town at approximately 500 metres west of the Brooker Highway.

The crash occurred at approximately 4.15pm when the driver of a 2014 white Toyota Hiace Van collided with the rear of 2012 white Toyota Camry taxi. At the time of the collision both vehicles were travelling in a westerly direction on Risdon Road.

Following the collision, the driver of the taxi pulled the vehicle off to the left hand side of the road, the Hiace continued in a westerly direction crossing to the incorrect side of the road and impacting a concrete wall opposite Bell Street. Members of the public came to the aid of the Hiace driver and provided first aid however he died at the scene. He was the sole occupant of the vehicle.

The taxi was being driven by a 32-year-old male from Claremont. At the time of the collision he had four paying passengers in the vehicle which included a two-year-old child. The four passengers were conveyed to the Royal Hobart Hospital for observation purposes, they sustained no significant injuries.

Police, Ambulance Tasmania, and the TFS all attended the scene. Risdon Road was closed between Albert Road and Park Street for approximately five hours whilst Police Forensic and Crash Investigation Services personnel investigated the scene. Local traffic diversions were put in place.

“Initial investigations suggest the collision may have occurred following the driver of the Hiace suffering a medical condition” said Acting Sergeant Adam Hall of Crash Investigation Services. “There is no indication that speed or the use of alcohol or illicit drugs were a contributing factor in the collision”.

Tasmania Police express their sincere condolences to the family and friends of the deceased, and a report will be prepared for the coroner.

Anyone who observed the vehicles prior to the collision is asked to contact Acting Sergeant Adam HALL at Southern Crash Investigation Services on 62302111 or by contacting Crime Stoppers.