Fatal police pursuit in Christchurch

At 12.20 a.m. Sunday morning 20 June '10, Christchurch Police observed a vehicle driving in a dangerous manner along Blenheim Road, Christchurch. The Police Patrol executed a 'U' turn in an effort to stop the speeding vehicle.

The vehicle turned onto Christchurch South Motorway then into Halswell Road where the driver lost control, striking a tree. The pursuit lasted just over 2 minutes.

The driver of the car, a 22 yr old Christchurch man, died en-route to the hospital. The two female passengers in the vehicle received moderate injuries in the crash and are currently being treated at Christchurch Hospital.

Christchurch South Area Commander, Inspector Malcolm Johnston, said Police had no idea why the vehicle was driving so dangerously down Blenheim Road.

"The vehicle was observed driving at speed weaving in and out of traffic. Police tried to stop the driver before he injured or killed an innocent member of the public".

"This is a tragic waste of human life. We are sick and tired of telling people to slow down, and if you're signalled by Police to stop, then stop".