A 19-year-old woman who was high on drugs and driving without a licence caused a devastating crash that claimed five lives in Waikato, a coroner has found.
The crash near Te Awamutu in May 2024 killed driver Piata Otufangavalu, her partner Suliasi Lefai, friend Cheyene Love-Mitchell, and Paul and Lois Grimmer, a retired couple travelling in another car. Reported by RNZ
Coroner Matthew Bates said Otufangavalu was “significantly impaired” after inhaling nitrous oxide—commonly known as nangs—and possibly cannabis before crossing the centre line into the Grimmers’ oncoming Audi.
“Her level of impairment clearly caused her to drive across into oncoming traffic … the result was five avoidable deaths,” Bates wrote.
Police described the collision as “horrendous.” Officers found green balloons, two large canisters of nitrous oxide, and a cannabis bong in the wreckage.
Bates noted Otufangavalu had never held a driver’s licence and should not have been on the road. “This is tragically and painfully demonstrated in the present case, through the loss of five lives,” he said.
The coroner also emphasised the responsibility of others present to prevent impaired individuals from driving. “To do otherwise demonstrates disregard for the safety of not only the impaired person, but also for others in their company and those whose paths they may cross.”
The New Zealand Drug Foundation lists nitrous oxide effects as including dizziness, hallucinations, blurred vision, and loss of coordination.
The Grimmers were on their weekly drive from their home in Te Awamutu to Ōtorohanga when their car was struck head-on. Mr Grimmer, a former truck driver with 30 years’ experience, had no chance to react.
Bates said he hopes his findings serve as a warning against impaired driving. “The tragic consequences of impaired driving have the potential to touch any of us. My sincere hope is that continued publicity, education, and enforcement help to keep our roads safe.”
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