Attributable to Inspector Rikki Whiu, Acting Northland District Commander:
At around 5:30pm this evening, Kaitaia Police carrying out routine patrols attempted to stop a vehicle near Awanui in the Far North.
The car initially stopped, but then drove off before officers could speak with the driver and occupants, resulting in Police pursuing the vehicle along State Highway 10 towards Taipa for about 7 kilometres.
Unfortunately the driver lost control near Kaingaroa and hit a steel barrier on the side of the road, and then careered into the path of an oncoming vehicle. This occurred on State Highway 10, Kaingaroa.
The offending driver, a 35-year-old Kaitaia woman, has been arrested for failing to stop for Police. She was also found to have been breaching her conditions, and went through a roadside breath testing procedure. Further charges are likely.
She was taken to Kaitaia Hospital for a medical check and further blood alcohol procedures.
Her two female passengers, a 27-year-old and 28-year-old also from Kaitaia, suffered serious injuries resulting in one being taken to Kaitaia Hospital by ambulance. The other has been flown to Auckland Hospital.
Two males in the oncoming vehicles received minor injuries and have received medical attention.
State Highway 10 was closed for some time near the intersection with Pairatahi Road while the Serious Crash Unit carried out a scene examination. The road is expected to reopen shortly (around 10pm).
A Police investigation into the incident has been commenced, and the Independent Police Conduct Authority will be notified.
We want to remind drivers that if you’re asked to pull over by Police, please stop. The risk of fleeing Police can result in serious injury or death, which we are trying to avoid.
The risk of not stopping is not worth your safety, your passengers’ safety, or that of other road users.
ENDS
Issued by the Police Media Centre