By Sonya Harvey

346 people have died in road crashes since the start of the year.

This represents a 13% reduction, or 52 fewer fatalities than the corresponding period last year.

The latest fatal crash occurred this morning in Westmoreland, leaving two dead and three others nursing injuries.

The deceased have been identified as 21-year-old Omario Brown and Javel Brown, both of Strathbogie in Westmoreland.

Reports indicate that the driver lost control of the vehicle along the Three Miles River main road, crashing into a tree at approximately 1:40 A.M.

National Road Safety Council Vice-Chairman, Dr. Lucien Jones, says this morning’s crash underscores the urgent need for a more concerted effort to reduce road fatalities in Westmoreland.

Meantime, data from the Island Traffic Authority (ITA) show that motorcyclists, pedestrians and private motor vehicle drivers were the top three road user categories with the highest number of road fatalities.

St. Catherine, Westmoreland, St. Andrew and St. Ann are the four parishes that accounted for 53% of the total fatalities.

Director General of Road Traffic at the ITA, Colonel Daniel Pryce, is urging all road users to remain vigilant as they navigate the roadways.