Key Takeaways
- A police pursuit in the Bay of Plenty region ended in a fatal car crash and fire on Tuesday
- The driver of the silver Lexus sedan died, and two young passengers were seriously injured
- Members of the public and police officers risked their lives to put out the fire and rescue the trapped passengers
- The police are seeking CCTV footage and dashcam video of the incident and are asking anyone with information to come forward
- The incident is being investigated, and the police are urging anyone with information to report it online or by calling 105
Introduction to the Incident
The Bay of Plenty road policing manager, Inspector Phil Gillbanks, reported that a police pursuit in the region ended in a tragic car crash and fire on Tuesday. The incident occurred when police spotted a silver Lexus sedan, which was recognized as a vehicle of interest in connection with an aggravated robbery in Tauranga on Monday. The manner of driving was erratic and posed a significant risk to other road users, prompting the police to take action.
The Police Pursuit
The police spiked the vehicle on Oturoa Rd, near SH36, and again on Hamurana Rd around 5:30 pm. Unfortunately, the Lexus crashed into a truck and caught fire on SH36, resulting in the death of the driver. The two young passengers were trapped and seriously injured in the wreckage. The police and members of the public responded quickly to the emergency, with people rushing to the scene with fire extinguishers to put out the flames. According to Inspector Gillbanks, the courageous actions of those involved saved the lives of the trapped passengers.
Response to the Emergency
The response to the emergency was rapid and heroic, with multiple people risking their lives to rescue the trapped passengers. Inspector Gillbanks praised the bravery of the members of the public and police officers who responded to the incident. He noted that about 18 fire extinguishers were used to put out the fire, and the actions of those involved prevented further harm to the passengers. The truck driver sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene by ambulance staff, while several police officers were also treated for minor burns and smoke inhalation.
Investigation and Appeal for Information
The police are currently investigating the incident and are seeking information from the public. They are asking anyone with CCTV footage or dashcam video of the silver Lexus sedan with the registration DZS7 between 4 pm and 5:30 pm on Tuesday to come forward. People can report any information online at 105.police.govt.nz or by calling 105 and using the reference number 260113/9655. Additionally, information can be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111. The police are urging anyone with information to report it to help with the investigation.
Conclusion and Reflection
The incident highlights the risks and challenges faced by police officers and members of the public in emergency situations. The bravery and quick thinking of those involved in the response to the incident prevented further harm and saved lives. The police are committed to investigating the incident and are seeking the public’s help in gathering information. As the investigation continues, the community is reminded of the importance of reporting any information that may assist in the inquiry. The incident also serves as a reminder of the dangers of reckless driving and the importance of road safety.
