Defence Force sailor killed in Rarotonga scooter crash
Published: 6:42AM Saturday June 23, 2012 Source: ONE News
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HMNZS Otago - Source: New Zealand Defence Force
The name of a Defence Force sailor killed in a scooter accident in Rarotonga has been released.
He was 22-year-old Able Seaman Combat Specialist, William Paratini Delamere.
The Defence Force said he was involved in a motor scooter accident next to where the HMNZS Otago was moored.
Delamere was on leave at the time and personnel from the ship were the first to the scene.
He was taken to Rarotonga Hospital where he was pronounced dead at 1.30am Cook Island time (11.30pm New Zealand time).
An investigation into the event is being conducted by local police.
"This is a sad day and, on behalf of the entire New Zealand Defence Force, especially the Navy, I extend my deepest sympathies to the family, colleagues and friends of William," Maritime Component Commander Commodore John Martin said.
The HMNZS Otago is currently in the Pacific conducting maritime patrols.
The Defence Force said it has notified the immediate families of all sailors involved and is providing them with assistance.