A man is facing 14 charges after a violent series of incidents in Auckland’s Epsom on Wednesday morning left three teenage cyclists injured, including one in a critical condition, and shocked the local community.
Police allege the 49-year-old assaulted a woman near the intersection of Ranfurly Road and Manukau Road before stealing the vehicle of a member of the public who stopped to help. The stolen vehicle was then allegedly driven into three teenage cyclists on Manukau Road, leaving one critically injured, another seriously injured and a third with moderate injuries. Police also allege the man fatally attacked a dog before officers arrested him within eight minutes of receiving the first emergency call.
Police said investigators are examining six separate incidents that unfolded in rapid succession around the Manukau Road area. Auckland City District Commander Superintendent Sunny Patel said the events occurred during the morning commute, when many people were travelling to work.
“Our staff apprehended the man within eight minutes of receiving the first call,” Superintendent Patel said.
“We have three cyclists that were injured after being hit by the vehicle stolen by the offender.
“All three were high-school aged teenage males.”
He said one of the boys was undergoing surgery at Auckland Hospital in a critical condition, while the second remained in a serious condition and the third had moderate injuries.
“Their parents have been advised and are by their sides. I know all of us will have them in our thoughts today. These boys were part of a cycling club, doing something they enjoyed.
“This will be a life-altering event.”
Police acknowledged the incidents had been “extremely confronting” for the Epsom community and assured the public there was no ongoing risk.
Investigators have begun interviewing witnesses and are continuing to gather evidence.
“Our investigation team have spoken to a number of witnesses, and we will be speaking with others over the coming days,” Superintendent Patel said.
“Police are aware that many commuters witnessed the events that unfolded, including the violent attack on a dog.
“We ask that if you have information to assist our investigation, and you haven’t contacted us, to please come forward.
“These were violent attacks, and if you have been impacted by what you saw today, we will ensure appropriate support referrals can be made available to you.”
The man remains under police guard at Auckland City Hospital and is expected to appear in court tomorrow. Police said he will face 14 charges comprising two counts of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, two counts of injuring with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, two counts of assault with a weapon, two counts of failing to stop and ascertain injury, one count of wilful ill-treatment of an animal, two counts of dangerous driving, one count of unlawful taking of a motor vehicle, one count of attempted unlawful taking, and one count of aggravated assault or resisting.
Police are appealing for anyone with information, including witnesses or those with dashcam footage, to contact them through 105 online or by phone, quoting file number 260805/2349.
