Jerry Collins, one of the most fearsome rugby players of the modern era, has died alongside his wife in a car crash in France.
Collins, 34, and his wife Alana Madill died when their car was struck by another vehicle in the south of France. Their three-month old daughter is reportedly in a critical condition and has been airlifted to a hospital in Montpellier.
Collins played 48 tests for New Zealand, including three as captain.
He was a fierce backrower whose strength in defence was a key factor in New Zealand's dominance over Australia for much of last decade.
Collins played eight seasons with Super Rugby side The Hurricanes and played 47 matches for Wellington.
Collins retired from international rugby in 2007 before playing in Japan and later for glamour French side Toulon.
Collins' friends and colleagues have paid tribute to him on Twitter.
Our thoughts, prayers & condolences to family & friends of Jerry Collins & Alana Madill; thoughts too with @AllBlacks on this so sad day ^MB
Really sad news about Jerry Collins and Alana Madill. Thoughts with their families. #jerrycollins
Had the privilege and honour of bleeding with him on the weekends on the field. Words cant express how sad I am brother. RIP big brother JC!
My heart and sadness goes out to jerry's wife and her family. And also to the collins family.. alofa atu!!
Such sad news about Jerry #KingOfPorirua
Really sad news about Jerry Collins and Alana Madill. Thoughts with their families. #jerrycollins
We are shocked and saddened to hear of Jerry and his wife's passing tonight. Our thoughts & prayers are with the family and baby Ayla...
We plan to go out there tonight and honour the hell out of Hurricane No. 82. RIP Jerry, you will always be a huge part of the Canes legacy.
Desperately tragic news about Jerry Collin's. As generous off the field as he was tough on it. #JerryCollins
NO!! Tragic news Jerry Collins and partner Alana pass away in car crash in France - leaving a 2m baby serious inj plse tell me isn't true?