Wanaka Police Officer Injured on Duty

NZ Police CommCens Alert 10:00 23-12-2007 Southern
Location of incident: Wanaka
Incident Type: Police Officer Injured

At approximately 3.30am today a Wanaka Police officer received moderate leg injuries while attempting to stop a vehicle on Brownston St, Wanaka.

Constable Mike Johnston of the Wanaka Police says the officer involved was in the process of initiating a breath screening test when the vehicle accelerated across the road hitting a protection fence and a commercial building before stopping. The vehicle narrowly missed a stream protected by the fence and a large tree.

The officer has attempted to stop the driver leaving during the breath screening process and has been dragged approximately 40 metres with the vehicle, through the fenced area, to where the vehicle stopped.

The injured officer was able to contain the female driver despite his injuries and transport her to the Wanaka Police station were he raised the alarm with South Comm's.

The 18-year-old female driver was arrested and processed for drink driving at the Wanaka Police Station and is likely to face further charges once the investigation has been completed.

The officer was taken to the Wanaka Medical Centre for treatment and was diagnosed as suffering from a broken right lower leg and a possible broken left ankle which can not be x-rayed due to extensive swelling. The Officer involved is now recovering at home.

All available off duty Police officers in Wanaka were called in to assist with the investigation early this morning.

On initial examination of the scene, Constable Johnston said 'our injured officer is extremely lucky to be alive and we are thankful he will still be around to spend Christmas with his Family. Yet again we are left with the consequences of the irresponsible actions of an allegedly drunk driver creating victims'.

Issued By: Inspector Stuart Leighton

ENDS

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