Supplied/NZ Army
Private Tristan McQueen, RNZIR.
The New Zealand Army has paid tribute to one of its soldiers, Private Tristan McQueen, RNZIR, after a double fatal crash in South Canterbury.
Emergency services were called to two-vehicle crash south of Rangitata, South Canterbury, around 3:30 p.m. Friday at the intersection of State Highway 1 and Looker Rd.
Two people died in the crash and a young child was flown to Christchurch Hospital by the Westpac Rescue Helicopter and has since been taken to Starship Hospital in Auckland.
The military confirmed his death on Wednesday, describing McQueen as a “hardworking fit young soldier who had a genuine passion for his young family”.
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Acting Chief of the Army Brigardier Rose King said it is “with sadness” that she confirmed McQueen’s death.
“Tristan enlisted in the New Zealand Army Regular Forces in July 2017 as a soldier in the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment,” she said.
“Tristan was initially seconded to Victor Company, 1st Battalion, and after Corps Training in April 2018, was posted to the 2nd/1st Battalion where he served for most of his regular armed forces career.
“This culminated in his placement with the Fire Support Group Platoon in 2021, recognizing his skills in this area.”
McQueen received his NZ Defense Force Service Medal in 2020, she said.
McQueen left behind his partner Kate and 19-month-old son Harvey, parents Susanna and Peter, twin brothers Finlay and Harry and his sister Courtney, she said.
“My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and unity at this difficult time.”
Funeral details will be released once the family has confirmed their wishes, she said.