A man has been charged in relation to the death of a 14-year-old girl involved in a hit and run in Oamaru on Tuesday night.
The St Kevin's College pupil was hit by a car around 10:40pm on Severn St and the vehicle involved failed to stop.
The man, believed to be the driver of the vehicle, has been charged with failing to stop to ascertain injury, Detective Senior Sergeant Rob Hanna says.
Further charges may be laid.
St Kevin's College is mourning the loss of their year 10 student.
"It is with profound sadness that we acknowledge the death last night of one of our year 10 female students," St Kevin's College principal Paul Olsen said in a statement.
"As expected, this has and will continue to have a traumatic effect on our school and particularly on the students who knew and loved her."
A full school liturgy was held in the school's chapel on Wednesday morning to help students work through the tragedy.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with her family at this time. Eternal rest, grant unto her O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace. Amen," the statement reads.
Students have been offered counselling and the chapel has been opened as a safe space for students to meet and grieve.
Community mental health organisations, other schools and relevant agencies are supporting the college community, Mr Olsen says.
Waitaki Mayor Gary Kircher told Newshub the community is in shock and his thoughts are with the victims family.
A scene examination has been complete and inquiries into the crash are ongoing.
Police would like to speak to witnesses of the crash, specifically, the driver of a truck that was travelling north shortly before the incident occurred.
Anyone with information can call Oamaru police on (03) 433 1400.
Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Newshub.
