Manawatü Police has launched an investigation after a fleeing driver crashed into another vehicle injuring its three occupants in Palmerston North early this afternoon.
The crash happened at approximately 1:25pm on Vogel Street. Prior to the crash, Police were notified about a Subaru vehicle that was being driven dangerously and erratically. A police unit has managed to locate this vehicle and signalled for it to pull over. The Subaru has not complied and the police unit has followed the Subaru for a very brief period of time. During this time the Subaru has overtaken a bus and collided with a Mazda vehicle.
The Subaru then caught on fire and its two occupants have got out of the car. The three people in the Mazda had to be removed from the car with the assistance of the Fire Service. They all sustained injuries and have been taken to the Palmerston North Hospital. The condition of the three is unknown at this stage.
The driver of the Subaru has been arrested and taken into custody. Their passenger was questioned and has now been released.
Officers are speaking to witnesses and the Serious Crash Unit is currently conducting a scene examination.
Further updates will be made once more information becomes available.
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Sara Stavropoulos on 027 702 0850.