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Fatal police car crash

Sunday 26 July 2009, 11:13AM

By New Zealand Police

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NORTHLAND

At about 11.38 pm on the evening of Saturday 25 July 2009, a police vehicle occupied by two uniformed front-line police members was travelling south along State Highway 1, Ohaeawai, towards Moerewa, when their marked patrol car struck two pedestrians walking in an easterly direction on their side of the road. The officers were on routine patrol and were travelling from Kaikohe to Moerewa.

The scene of the crash was approximately 1.3 km south of the Ohaeawai town-ship. This is on the open road. There is no lighting in this rural area.

The deceased is a male Maori, aged 16 years from Kaeo. He died at the scene of the crash. He was walking along the Highway with another male person, aged 16 years, from Kaeo who was injured as a result of the crash. This person was airlifted by helicopter and transported to Whangärei Hospital where his injuries are considered moderate.

Police have commenced three investigations in relation to this incident. Firstly, a Coronial investigation has been commenced as police have a responsibility under the Coroners Act 2006 to investigate this crash on behalf of the Coroner. Furthermore, a criminal investigation and an Independent Police Conduct Authority Inquiry have also been commenced.

Next-of-kin have been notified and Victim Support is being provided to all families involved.

Police are appealing for any witnesses who may have been travelling along State Highway 1, Ohaeawai at the time of this crash to contact Detective Sergeant Sam BINDON of the Kaikohe Police.