Media Release

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Runaway Truck Injures two.

This afternoon [20/1] the Palmerston North based Rescue Helicopter was dispatched to a rural address near Tiraumea, East of Eketahuna, where two men, one in his 80's and one in his 60's had sustained injuries when the truck they were operating became uncontrollable down a steep hill. It is understood the truck, laden with gravel, was unable to be stopped and began gathering speed. Some way down the hill, the enormity of the situation became clear to the passenger and he jumped clear of the stricken rig, badly injuring his leg in the process. The driver rode out the drama, eventually steering the vehicle off the formed track and onto farmland in an attempt to contain the speed. Even after jumping "some metres" over a culvert the truck remained upright, although the driver also sustained injuries. Both men were stabilised at the scene by the on-board St John Ambulance Intensive Care Para-medics before being airlifted to Palmerston North Hospital. Local Fire Service and Police were in attendance to assist with the helicopter landing site. The Rescue Helicopter was used due to the serious nature of the injuries and the considerable road distance to hospital.

Philips Search and Rescue Trust is a charitable organisation, operating rescue helicopters throughout the Central North Island. Philips Search and Rescue Trust relies on support from principal sponsors and community contributions. The Palmerston North Rescue Helicopter service has been made possible through the generosity of community donations. This crucial financial support ensures our rescue helicopters can continue to bring life-saving equipment, rescue personnel and trauma-trained medics directly to the patient. For further information about PSRT visit our website http://rescue.org.nz.

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