Police and emergency services are at the scene of a crash on Great South Road at the intersection of Orams Road and Browns Road. Great South Road remains closed between Browns and Kerrs Roads.
Just before 2:30pm, a stolen car failed to negotiate the intersection and crashed into three stationary vehicles which were waiting to turn off Great South Road. Two 15 year olds ran from the scene and were quickly apprehended by Police at a nearby petrol station with assistance from a member of the public.
Police had previously attempted to pull the car over in nearby suburb Weymouth and had been following the vehicle with sirens and flashing red and blue lights for approximately two minutes. The pursuit was abandoned approximately 1km before the crash due to the dangerous manner of driving.
One person was trapped in their vehicle and has been transported to hospital with moderate injuries. Another person and two children have also been taken to hospital with minor injuries following the crash.
Counties Manukau Police Central Area Commander Inspector Julia Lynch says that this incident demonstrates the tragic consequences that can result from people having a blatant disregard for public safety and the law.
“There have been a number of incidents throughout greater Auckland recently where young people have been found driving stolen vehicles, some children as young as 13. This is a hugely dangerous practice and today has shown that it is only a matter of time before someone is seriously injured or killed.
“Our thoughts are with those motorists who have been injured in today’s crash and we wish them a fast recovery.”
Both offenders are in breach of their bail conditions and had been wanted by Police in relation to other matters before the crash.
“Police never want to be knocking on doors delivering news of a tragedy to anyone’s family. For this reason we are working closely with our partners to actively engage the young people in our District who are committing offences like what we have seen today. We urge all parents and caregivers to take responsibility for your children and ensure they are safe at home or in school rather than putting themselves and the public at risk in stolen vehicles,” says Inspector Lynch.
The two boys will be facing various charges at the Manukau Youth Court.
The incident will be referred to the IPCA.
ENDS
Issued by Kimberley Mathews/Communications Manager, Counties Manukau Police
021 192 0717
