At around 10.20pm last night (17 June 2015) Police were called to an address in eastern Christchurch where a large front end loader was reported being driven into fences and parked cars.
Inspector Derek Erasmus says “The driver of loader failed to stop for Police when they arrived. The driver then drove the vehicle at low speed around a number of Eastern Christchurch Streets. Police cars were placed ahead of the vehicle to clear members of the public and cars away from the vehicle.”
“Shortly before midnight the vehicle was driven along Fitzgerald Ave heading towards the city on the wrong side of the Road. The risk to the public and Police had significantly increased and a decision was made to use chemical munitions to stop the vehicle. Canterbury Police AOS deployed one round of CS gas into the cab of the vehicle. The vehicle slowed and after the driver had jumped from the cab a Police Officer entered the vehicle and brought it to a stop. Police arrested the 16 year old male driver who was uninjured.”
The 16 year old youth will appear in Christchurch Youth Court this morning charged with unlawfully taking a motor vehicle, aggravated assault, intentional damage, failing to stop, driving with excess breath alcohol, failing to comply with a prohibition from driving and reckless driving.
“Fortunately no members of the public or Police were injured during this incident which lasted approximately 90 minutes. It is possible that some people may notice damage to their property this morning which may be linked to this incident and Police urge them to report this as soon as possible” explained Inspector Erasmus
With so much construction equipment in the City, Police urge owners to ensure their vehicles are locked and cannot be accessed by members of the public. It is also important that any unusual activity in and around construction sites is reported to Police straight away.
Anyone who has any information or damage to their property that may be linked to this incident is asked to call Christchurch Central Police Station on 03 363 7400 option 1.
Information can also be provided anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Media contact: Lisa-Marie Brooks, District Communications Manager, Canterbury Police District. Mobile: 021 942 404