The Island’s road traffic fatality count for 2008 has reached three, following a tragic collision which took place this morning on Middle Road, Southampton, at the junction of Lighthouse Hill Road, opposite the Waterlot Inn.

Just before 11.15, it appears a female motorist, a tourist, on a rental cycle, towing her young daughter, was travelling east when she lost control over the vehicle and collided with a van that was travelling in the opposite direction.

This resulted in the daughter becoming trapped beneath the van until personnel from the Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service arrived to extract her.

The girl and the mother were rushed to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital in separate ambulances to be treated for serious injuries. However, The Royal Gazette understands the mother later succumbed to her injuries.

Police have not released the identity of the victims at this time, but are expected to do so later this afternoon.

It is also understood the girl is in critical condition.

Meanwhile, the area of Middle Road in which the accident occurred was cordoned off for around two hours, while traffic investigators looked for evidence.

*See tomorrow’s Royal Gazette for full details.