Body of missing motorist recovered

Photos - Cameron Avery

The crash involving three vehicles occurred at approximately 6.10pm on the Mangatapu Causeway bridge, the van and its two occupants crashed through the safety barrier and into the water.

The passenger aged in his 20's managed to escape from the submerged vehicle. Bay of Plenty Area Inspector Clifford Paxton said a police constable jumped into the water to assist the ,man. The pair drifted some distance and eventually managed to get ashore.

The police constable in his 50's who striped down to his underwear to jump into the water and assist the passenger managed to keep hold of the man as the current took them and pull him on to his back. He saw flashlights on the shore from other police members searching and focused on moving towards those lights. After 20 minutes to half an hour the officer managed to get to shore with the man.

Four occupants of the two other vehicles involved were taken to Tauranga hospital after receiving moderate injuries.

Police divers were called in at 10am to assist to locate the driver.

The man in his 20's was located in the van witch was recovered using a crane.

His family are in the process of being notified and a formal identification will need to take place. The man will not be named until this process is complete.

Police wish to acknowledge the assistance of the Tauranga Harbour Master and the Mount Surf Lifesaving Club.

A full serious crash is under way.

Story - Lani Hepi