Napier Boys' High School "saddened and shocked" by accident involving student
Napier Boys' High School says they are "saddened and shocked" by an accident involving one of their students at a railway crossing this morning.
Emergency services were called to the intersection of State Highway 51 and Ellison St just before 8.30am.
St John Ambulance transported the teenager to Hawke's Bay Hospital where he is now in a critical condition.
Headmaster Jarred Williams says the school is supporting the family of the boy involved.
“Our thoughts are with the family during this difficult time, and we will continue to support them in any way we can,” Mr Williams says.
“Our students, staff and the wider school community have been informed of the incident. Support from the school counselling team and the Ministry of Education’s Emergency Team is in place for those who may need assistance.”
He says the school community will be updated on the situation, where and when appropriate and Napier Boys’ High School is assisting authorities in their investigations.
Napier Mayor Kirsten Wise has weighed in on the situation and says their thoughts go out to the young man involved in this collision, and his family and his friends.
She also acknowledged the efforts of those first on the scene.
"As further details are made available, Napier City Council will work with KiwiRail and Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency to fully review this incident," Wise says.
A police spokesperson says the rail crossing on Ellison Street, Napier South is likely to remain closed for most of the day following an earlier crash between a cyclist and a train.
"Investigation into what happened is ongoing."
KiwiRail Chief Operating Officer Todd Moyle confirmed the train was a freight service travelling from Napier to Hastings.
He said incidents like this are "extremely upsetting" for all those involved, and their thoughts are with the family and friends of the cyclist.
“In line with our standard practice, our driver and all of our staff involved will be offered support from KiwiRail."
