One person has died, and another is in a critical condition following an incident in Manurewa overnight.
A critical incident investigation is now underway, which will establish the full circumstances of what unfolded.
At about 1am, a Police unit was travelling along Roscommon Road after attending an unrelated job.
Staff have then sighted a Mitsubishi vehicle pulling out of Sharland Road closely followed by an Isuzu.
Officers were concerned the Mitsubishi was being chased by the Isuzu and signalled for the Isuzu to stop on Roscommon Road.
Moments after lights and sirens were activated the Isuzu made contact with the Mitsubishi, causing the vehicle to leave the road and collide with a tree.
Officers immediately rendered first aid, however the passenger of the vehicle was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The driver was transported to hospital in a critical condition, where they remain.
The driver of the Isuzu was arrested at the scene and transported to hospital with minor injuries.
A scene examination has been completed by the Serious Crash Unit and the road has since reopened.
“There are several investigations now underway, which will work to establish all the facts surrounding this morning’s tragic incident”, said Superintendent Shanan Gray.
“This includes notifying the Independent Police Conduct Authority, as is standard procedure.
“We are also working to support those affected and their families, as well as our staff who were involved.
“As part of our investigation, we are seeking information from witnesses who may have been in the area at the time, or prior to this incident occurring.
“If you have information, please update Police online now or call 105.”
Please use reference number 250627/8090.
Update at 12.40pm
Police are continuing with a critical incident investigation surrounding the events leading up to a fatal crash in Manurewa overnight.
“We are now in a position to release further information as our enquiries continue.
“The driver of the Mitsubishi vehicle remains in a critical condition at Middlemore Hospital, and was due to undergo surgery today.
“Police have spoken with the man taken into custody at the scene this morning.
“At this stage, the 56-year-old man has been charged with driving dangerously causing death, dangerous driving causing injury and driving while forbidden.
“He will appear in Manukau District Court today.
“Police enquiries will continue, and further charges cannot be ruled out as we investigate further.
“While matters are before the Court, we can advise that parties in both vehicles were known to each other.
“Until the next of kin notifications have been carried out, further details regarding the deceased are unable to be released.
“We would like to acknowledge the impact this event will have had on the community and our thoughts are with everyone involved.
“There are now several investigations underway, including a critical incident investigation.
“Police are still seeking information from any witnesses who may have been in the area at the time, or prior to this incident occurring.”
If you have information, please update Police online now or call 105.
Please use reference number 250627/8090 or cite ‘Operation Highbury’.
