Speed may have contributed to woman’s death, police say

An evening stroll has ended in tragedy after a car lost control and hit and killed a 62-year-old woman at Montrose, with a Tasmania Police inspector revealing what may have caused the collision.

Police and emergency services responding to a report of a person struck by a vehicle on Montrose Road at Montrose. Picture: Zak Simmonds

AN EVENING stroll has ended in tragedy after a car lost control and hit a female pedestrian on Wednesday night.

Emergency services were called to Montrose Road about 4.45pm where Tasmania Police Inspector Brian Edmonds said it appeared a Holden Vectra hatch had entered a right-hand corner and lost control, hitting the 62-year old Chinese national.

“The lady and her husband were staying with relatives close by, and they were out undertaking some exercise walking along Montrose Road when the accident happened,” he said.

“Tragically she was killed on the scene.”

Inspector Edmonds said the woman’s husband was treated by paramedics at the scene for shock.

“He was not injured during the incident, but [it’s] obviously a very traumatic event for anyone to witness, let alone to see a loved one in such tragic circumstances,” he said.

The car was being driven by a 41-year-old Montrose man who was accompanied by another male passenger.

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Police and emergency services responding to a report of a person struck by a vehicle on Montrose Road at Montrose. Picture: Zak Simmonds

“They were travelling in the area and unfortunately appeared to be entering the corner too quickly and lost control of the vehicle, which unfortunately collided with the lady,” Inspector Edmonds said.

“The driver has been tested for drugs and alcohol, but we’re still awaiting the results of those. There’s nothing to suggest they’re contributing factors as this stage.”

The two men were uninjured and assisted police with the investigation.

“This is a tragic reminder of the devastating effects that can occur on our Tasmanian roads, and a reminder for all motorists that they need to exercise care when travelling and particularly driving to the conditions and remembering the fatal five,” Inspector Edmonds said.

“Indications are speed may have been a contributing factor in this accident, as it is in so many.”

Crash Investigation Services and Forensic Services attended the scene as part of the ongoing investigation.

About 20 emergency service first responders were at the scene to help with the investigation, talk to witnesses, and divert traffic from the area.

Montrose Road was closed for a number of hours while the investigation was under way.

Inspector Edmonds said Tasmania Police was devastated whenever a fatality occurred anywhere in the state.

“Our thoughts and condolences are with the family and friends at this very difficult time, and it’s a reminder to all of us that we must drive to the conditions and remain safe on the roads at all times,” he said.

Any witnesses are asked to contact Tasmania Police on 131 444.