Reflecting on the conclusion of a fleeing driver incident on northern Waikato roads, Police say having the motoring public situationaly aware made a difference in the incident being successfully resolved.
District Road Policing Manager, Inspector Freda Grace, said the incident began with an attempted routine vehicle check on Hamilton’s Clarkin Rd about 11.25am.
“A dog handler has attempted to pull the Black Ford Explorer over but the driver has fled north at speed.
A pursuit managed by the Police Northern Communications Centre was initiated and it was established the vehicle was stolen yesterday.
“The fleeing driver has led Police on a circuitous route around northern suburbs of Hamilton before he turned off on to River Rd towards Horotiu. Road spikes were deployed at Horotiu and the Explorer has continued north along SH1, albeit at a somewhat reduced speed.”
Mrs Grace said when fleeing driver incidents occur one of the main considerations for Police was the safety of other motorists which was the case in this instance as well.
“Officers providing commentary on the pursuit reported low traffic flows and what traffic there was was pulling right over which allowed our vehicles to keep the stolen Explorer in view and deploy other units.
“This is exactly what Police would ask the motoring public to do, if you see an emergency vehicle’s lights approaching and hear its siren, pull over and remain stationary until the vehicle or vehicles pass.”
With its tyres flattened officers were aware the fleeing driver had few options available and were able to make plans to bring the matter to a conclusion.
“Traffic coming off the Waikato Expressway was stopped at Taupiri while southbound traffic coming in from Huntly was also stopped.
“The fleeing driver has then approached the round-about at Taupiri where he lost control and crashed into a power-pole. He was arrested without injury or further incident and is currently being spoken to by Police.”
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