Cobden Woman, 68, Dies in Highway Crash; Swiss National Charged

A tragic incident on November 19, 2023, resulted in the death of Glenda Sally Douglas, a 68-year-old woman from Cobden. The two-vehicle collision occurred on State Highway 73, near Sheffield in Canterbury, raising serious concerns about road safety in the area.

Police confirmed that Patrick Keusch, a 32-year-old Swiss national, was arrested following the crash. He faces charges of careless driving causing death. The incident has sparked a significant response from authorities, who are emphasizing the need for responsible driving practices.

Keusch appeared in the Christchurch District Court on November 20, where he, through his lawyer, entered a plea of guilty to the charge of careless driving. As a result of the court’s decision, he has been disqualified from driving and is subject to specific bail conditions. These conditions include surrendering his passport and a prohibition on leaving New Zealand while the legal proceedings continue.

The next court appearance for Keusch is scheduled for January 16, 2024. The case has drawn attention not only due to the tragic loss of life but also because it underscores the critical importance of road safety. Local authorities are urging drivers to remain vigilant and prioritize safety measures to prevent such incidents in the future.

This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the potential consequences of careless driving. The community in Cobden mourns the loss of Douglas, while the legal ramifications for Keusch will unfold in the coming months.