Teenager Hospitalized After Being Struck by Car Near Chaotic Tauranga Gathering

Key Takeaways

• A 14-year-old girl was hit by a car outside a party in Tauranga, New Zealand, and is in a serious condition at Starship Hospital.
• The driver of the car has been arrested, and police are continuing their inquiries, with charges likely to be laid.
• Emergency responders faced aggression from some partygoers while trying to help the injured teenager.
• The incident occurred outside a large party involving youths, which was described by a witness as "out-of-control".
• The Serious Crash Unit and the criminal investigation branch are attending to the scene and investigating the incident.

Introduction to the Incident
A disturbing incident occurred in Tauranga, New Zealand, last night, where a 14-year-old girl was hit by a car outside a party. The girl is currently in a serious condition at Starship Hospital, and the driver of the car has been arrested. According to Senior Sergeant Roger Schreuder, the incident occurred at around 11:30pm on Saturday on Kaitemako Rd in Welcome Bay. The police have confirmed that the driver has been arrested, and inquiries are ongoing, with charges likely to be laid once the investigation is concluded.

The Scene of the Incident
The incident took place outside a large party involving youths, which was described by a witness as "out-of-control". The party was being held at an address on Kaitemako Rd, and it is alleged that some of the partygoers became aggressive towards police and ambulance staff who were trying to assist the injured teenager. This behavior was deemed "extremely disappointing" by Senior Sergeant Schreuder. The Serious Crash Unit and the criminal investigation branch attended the scene to investigate the incident and gather evidence.

Emergency Response and Transport
Hato Hone St John responded to the incident with one ambulance, one rapid response unit, and one manager. The patient, the 14-year-old girl, was initially transported to Tauranga Hospital in a critical condition. She was later taken to Starship Hospital in Auckland, where she is currently receiving treatment. The quick response of the emergency services is commendable, especially given the challenging circumstances they faced, including aggression from some partygoers.

Investigation and Charges
The police are continuing their inquiries into the incident, and charges are likely to be laid against the driver once the investigation is concluded. The Serious Crash Unit and the criminal investigation branch are working together to gather evidence and piece together the events surrounding the incident. The investigation will likely involve reviewing witness statements, analyzing evidence from the scene, and interviewing the driver and other parties involved.

Conclusion and Reflection
The incident outside the party in Tauranga is a disturbing reminder of the importance of road safety and responsible behavior, especially among young people. The aggression shown towards emergency responders is also a concern, as it can hinder their ability to provide critical care and assistance. As the investigation into the incident continues, it is essential to remember the victim, the 14-year-old girl, and her family, who are likely going through a difficult and challenging time. The community will be watching closely as the investigation unfolds, and it is hoped that justice will be served and that measures will be taken to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.