Monday, 18 December 2017 - 12:02pm |
Wellington

Wanted man arrested, Lower Hutt

1 min read

Lower Hutt Police have arrested a wanted man following a fleeing driver incident overnight.  

The driver of a white Honda failed to stop on Leighton Avenue at 3am this morning and a pursuit was initiated.

It was abandoned for safety reasons shortly after.

Another pursuit was initiated later when the car was spotted on Ludlum Crescent and once again failed to stop.

Road spikes were deployed on Randwick Road.

During the pursuit the driver crashed into a parked car on Norton Park Road, however continued to flee and objects were thrown out the window.

The pursuit was abandoned when a firearm was pointed at a police car.

The driver then crashed into another parked car on Wyndrum Avenue and was arrested.

A loaded homemade firearm was found in the vehicle.

A 30-year-old man is due to appear in the Hutt Valley District Court today facing a number of charges.

The charges in relation to this morning’s pursuit include; using a firearm against a law enforcement officer, aggravated failing to stop and dangerous driving.

Charges relating to a warrant to arrest issued in October are aggravated failing to stop, dangerous driving, possession of ammunition, possession of an offensive weapon and theft.

Area Response Manager Senior Sergeant Peter Middlemiss says since the warrant to arrest was issued Police have been actively searching for this man.

“We are pleased to have arrested this man who was believed to be dangerous and wanted on a variety of serious charges.”

“Fleeing driver incidents are incredibly dangerous for everyone involved and members of the public. This man is very lucky that in this instance there were no tragic consequences, which can happen if a driver chooses not to stop for Police.”

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre