Man named in fatal Targa Tasmania rally crash

A man killed in “freak” crash at the Targa Tasmania rally has been identified. His car rolled 35.4km into the stage and miraculously his co-driver survived.

The 2021 Targa Tasmania rally has been marred by tragedy after a man was killed on Day 5 of the event.

Shane Navin died this morning after his 1979 Mazda RX-7 rolled 35.4km into the stage about 10am.

Co-driver Glenn Evans was assessed by medical crews but miraculously had no injuries.

“This is a very sad time for the Targa community,” Targa Australia chief executive Mark Perry said.

“Shane was a much loved and admired member of our Targa family. We send our heartfelt condolences to Shane’s family and friends on their loss.”

Shane Navin died in a rally crash in Tasmania today. Picture: Targa Tasmania

Tasmania Police have set up a road block on the Lyell Highway at Nelson River. Picture: James Bresnehan

The crash is being investigated by police.

It unfolded on the second half of Mount Arrowsmith, which was plagued by wet weather at the time of the incident.

Earlier, Tasmania Police confirmed a crash had taken place on social media.

“Police and emergency services remain on the scene of a serious single vehicle crash on the Lyell Highway near Double Barrel Creek,” the Facebook post read.

“The road is blocked for southbound motorists.

“Motorists are asked to avoid the area or anticipate delays until the scene is cleared.”

People who know Mr Navin are sharing their condolences on Facebook.

“Ashley Navin has asked that I post on behalf of his family the sad news that this afternoon Shane Navin tragically passed away in a freak accident whilst competing in Targa Tasmania. He was a great father, husband & mate & will be missed by many. Condolences to Shane’s family,” Bo Williams wrote.

Kelly Hooch Hunt said Mr Navin was a “quintessential gentleman”.

“Shane Navin has always been an absolute pleasure to deal with and his passing today has really rocked me badly. His navigator Glenn Evans is ok but of course badly shaken and upset at losing a great mate,” she wrote.

“R.I.P. Shane and my heartfelt condolences to his wife Jennifer, son Ashley and daughter Kelsie.”

Targa Tasmania Day 1 2021. Picture: Aaron Wishart

Mozz’s Targa Tasmania ‘inside line’ updates Facebook page, which has been providing live commentary of the event, also provided an update earlier this afternoon.

“OK, so official news channels are now reporting the sad news, it would seem as though we have lost one of our Targa family in an unfortunate accident during the Arrowsmith stage,” the post read.

“I am so sorry to be the bearer of the bad news and struggling to find the right words to report, hard to be up-beat when you know your friends are needing a hug and you’re not there for them.”

It is the third fatality in the event’s history, with the most recent occurring in 2013.

Targa Tasmania is a tarmac-based rally event which has been held in Tasmania every year since 1992.

It is named after the Targa Florio, a motoring event previously held in Sicily.