A 21-year-old man faces multiple charges after allegedly ramming a police vehicle in Auckland during a high-speed pursuit. According to Senior Sergeant Jesse Mowat, the incident began around 1:30 a.m. when officers spotted a Mazda Axela traveling on Victoria Street West with its lights turned off.
How did the police pursuit unfold?
The pursuit began when a patrol vehicle followed the Mazda Axela as it traveled west onto the motorway, according to Mowat, the Impairment Prevention Team coordinator. The driver eventually exited at Lincoln Road and stopped at a traffic light, passing an unmarked patrol car in the process.
Mowat stated that the Mazda then reversed into the front of the patrol vehicle before speeding back toward the city. Although police signaled for the driver to stop, the vehicle continued south toward State Highway 1. Officers used spikes to stop the vehicle after it exited at Drury, which resulted in the car coming to a stop near Young Crescent.
What charges is the driver facing?
The 21-year-old driver was taken into custody following the pursuit. According to Mowat, the man has been charged with reckless driving, failing to stop, and failing to comply with prohibition.
Why was the incident considered dangerous?
The incident was significant due to the high risk of injury during the ramming and high-speed driving. Mowat noted that it was “incredibly lucky that the only damage was to a vehicle and no one was hurt.”
What happens next for the suspect?
The suspect is scheduled to appear in Auckland District Court today. This court appearance may determine the next steps in the legal proceedings regarding the alleged reckless driving and failure to comply with prohibition.
