To be attributed to Inspector Trevor Beggs, Road Policing Manager, Waitemata Police
Police would like to thank the many thousands of motorists who exercised patience and consideration when caught up in yesterday’s roading calamity, after a truck carrying a digger hit a bridge in Penrose.
The Waitemata Police Motorways team are investigating the incident, and are in the process of reviewing CCTV footage and statements taken from witnesses and those directly involved in the crash.
At this stage Police can confirm that the load was overheight and witnesses have described seeing the high-visibility LED early warning signs activate as a result, on the driver’s approach to the bridge.
“Yesterday was a nightmare commute home for many of us, and police want to assure the motoring public that anyone found to be responsible for the crash and the resulting traffic disruption will be held fully to account”.
“Police staff and our partners worked at full capacity to remove the obstruction and reopen the network as soon as it was safe to do so. This was a multi-agency effort, and everyone pulled together to get the job done in an in incredibly short time under the circumstance.”
“The roading gridlock that followed led to thousands of motorists being inconvenienced and we would like to thank every person who calmly endured the delays for their patience” says Inspector Beggs.
Once the investigation is complete and any charges have been determined a further media release will be made.
ENDS
Beth Bates/NZ Police