Police chase ends in tragedy

Shortly after 8.00p.m. this evening, Police detected a speeding motorist travelling at 89kph along Ferry Road, Christchurch.

Police turned and chased the vehicle following it into Fitzgerald Avenue.

The offending vehicle pulled up and stopped at a red light at the intersection of St Asaph Street and Fitzgerald.

When the traffic light went green the offending vehicle started to pull over to the left hand side of the road. As it did this it then accelerated away along Fitzgerald Avenue.

The vehicle went through Tuam, Lichfield, Cashel and Hereford Streets which were all green.

The lights at the next intersection were red, Worchester St. The offending vehicle slowed down and when the lights went green it accelerated away again.

The next lights at Gloucester were also red however the offending driver drove straight through the lights and collided with the victim’s vehicle.

Police Area Commander Inspector Malcolm Johnston says “Police were duty bound to stop this driver. Travelling at nearly 90kph along Ferry Road is a recipe for disaster. He could have killed anyone at any stage".

As a result of the crash a 73 year old male and a female passenger have died.

"Blame for this tragedy lies entirely with this driver. He was signalled to stop and he should have stopped. He is a disqualified driver and well known to Christchurch Police."

"I have spoken with the officers involved and they are devastated".