Texting-and-driving death probed

The RCMP are investigating whether a fatal crash near Pokiok was caused by a driver who was texting while driving.

The 19-year-old driver hit a rockwall in the median while driving west on the Trans Canada Highway, at about 4:50 p.m. Monday.

John Dwayne Sommerville, of Fredericton, died at the accident scene, while a 20-year-old passenger was taken to hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

The District 7 RCMP collision re-construction expert is examining the accident scene.

The RCMP stated in a release that early indication is the victim was sending a text message with his cell phone at the time of the crash.

New Brunswick does not have a law that prohibits texting while driving.

The Progressive Conservatives have already stated if they win the Sept. 27 election they would introduce distracted driving legislation.

The Liberals have said they are also looking at a law but it was not introduced before the legislature was dissolved before the election.