Christchurch man was 'changing his life around' for his kids before fatal crash
Monday, 4 January 2021
The partner of a man killed in a crash in Christchurch says her family is “truly heartbroken” and she cannot forgive anyone responsible.
Benjamin Simon Furze, 29, was killed in a single-car crash on Russley Rd, between Johns Rd and the Memorial Ave off-ramp, about 10.45pm on Wednesday.
Two others were taken to Christchurch Hospital, one in a serious condition and one with moderate injuries.
Kimberley McKinlay said she was “completely shattered” by her partner’s death.
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“We are all forever truly heartbroken.
“He was loved by his children – two boys Cayleb and Jacob, and stepdaughter Savannah.”
McKinlay said Furze was a passenger in the car when the “horrific” crash happened.
She wanted the driver to be held accountable.
“I can not forgive them for what they have done.”
Furze was her best friend, “my rock, my everything”, and her life had been “changed forever”, she said.
“It is so sad he didn't deserve to go like this … he only just got released from prison and was changing his life around for the better for his kids.
“He was a hard-working, kind, caring man that we made many memories with,” she said.
Police were continuing to investigation the circumstances of the crash.
“Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones,” they said in a statement.
Holiday road toll up
Monday was the last official day of the summer holidays, and police sent out a warning urging motorists to drive to the conditions after there were 11 fatalities this holiday period.
The latest fatality involved a collision between a truck and a car on State Highway 29, in the Lower Kaimai area, on Monday morning.
On New Year’s Day, a two-car crash in Northland’s Hikurangi killed Wellington 6-year-old Myka Tuala.
Police Assistant Commissioner Scott Fraser said many areas had been affected by bad weather in the last few days, making it even more important for all drivers to remain focused and make the right decisions.
“We know people will be keen to get home and the weather conditions will make driving challenging in many parts of New Zealand,” he said.
“But we don't want to see any more families impacted by tragedy this holiday period, and we need all road users to play their part in getting everyone home safely.”
Fraser said drivers needed to keep their speed down, drive to the conditions, watch their following distances, put the phones away and take a break if they felt tired.
“By doing these simple things, we look after our families, each other and everyone on the roads.”
The official holiday period began at 4pm on Christmas Eve and runs until 6am today.