The passenger who died at the scene of an overnight crash on Orakei's Ngapipi Rd at about 2.20am, was 19 year-old David Sionepulu of Panmure. The driver of the vehicle in which David was the front seat passenger was seen by witnesses leaving the crash site and is still to be identified and located by Police.
The driver is urged to contact Police immediately. Anyone with information about who the driver was, should contact Detective Sergeant Kathy Bostock at Glen Innes CIB on 09 524 1920.
Sadly, two middle-aged men who were in an earlier car crash nearby on Tamaki Drive are in critical conditions in Auckland Hospital with life-threatening injuries. One, the driver, is a Glen Innes resident while the other man was the front seat passenger.
Auckland Police Serious Crash Unit would like to hear from any witnesses of the lead-up to the Tamaki Drive crash that happened at about 11.40pm on Waitangi night. Anyone with information can call 09 359 3111.
Auckland City District Road Policing Manager Inspector Gavin Macdonald says it's likely speed and alcohol played a part in both crashes - both of which were entirely preventable.
"It's frustrating for Police and the public that some drivers continue to ignore the proliferation of messages and warnings about the dangers of driving too quickly and/or drinking and driving. As long as people continue to do this, families will be torn apart by road fatalities and long term injuries."
ENDS
Issued by Noreen Hegarty
Auckland City Police Communications Manager
Ph 09 302 6947 or 0274-951-589
Website: www.police.govt.nz