North Shore police say they have arrested one of the occupants of a speeding vehicle which struck a police officer in the suburb of Takapuna early this morning. The male suspect has been arrested in the past hour.
A large police team comprising Eagle, the Police marine unit, Delta, and an estimated 60 ground staff are looking for up to three other persons who were in the offending vehicle. Two males and a female are being sought.
The search for these persons is focused in an area on the seaward side of the Greenhithe peninsula, where it borders the estuary with Beachhaven. Hobsonville is also included.
The suspects were the occupants of a car which was later reported stolen. The car struck a police constable at the intersection of Esmonde Road and Fred Thomas Drive at about 4.00am today Tuesday 24 March 2009.
Area Commander Inspector Les Paterson says the force of the impact was such that the Constable was thrown into the air. He landed heavily and is believed to have received serious injuries. An ambulance transported the officer to hospital. His injuries are not considered life threatening.
The Constable injured this morning is a 23 year old male, with just over 18 month's service in police. He is in a satisfactory condition and is recovering well. We thank the medical specialists and staff at the hospital for the excellent treatment he is receiving at this crucial time.
"A police pursuit was in progress prior to the officer being hit. This incident is being investigated by the North Shore CIB," Inspector Paterson said.
"The Constable had set up road spikes at the intersection and soon after he has been hit by the speeding vehicle. It did not stop. The vehicle continued at speed for eight kilometers on deflated tyres before being driven off the Beachhaven wharf and into the water. The suspects fled from the scene."
"A crane is being used to recover the vehicle from the mudflats At Beachaven before the tide comes in. This may not be an easy task. The vehicle will be held for forensic examination," Inspector Paterson said.
The man taken into custody earlier this morning at the end of the Beachhaven Wharf where the car was abandoned will be charged with theft of outboard motors. It is not yet known if he was involved or an occupant of the stolen vehicle, but he continues to assist police with their enquiries.
Police are urging residents in the coastal areas of Beachhaven, and Greenhithe, to be alert for any suspicious behaviour by the three persons being sought. Anyone with information is asked to call North Shore Police on 09 477 5000 or the confidential crime line 027 2727669.
ENDS:
Kevin Loughlin
Communications Manager
Waitemata Police District Headquarters |Takapuna North Shore City
Phone: +64 9 488 9758 | Mobile: 027 281 0271 | kevin.loughlin@police.govt.nz