Porirua Police Officer Named

New Zealand Police National News Release 10:09am 11 July 2008

The Porirua police officer who died after being hit by a stolen car in Titahi Bay this morning was Sergeant Derek Wootton, aged 52 years.

Superintendent Pieri Munro, Wellington Police District Commander, said Sergeant Wootton was a very experienced frontline supervisor who joined police in March 1994.

"His death in the line of duty is a huge loss for his family, friends and police colleagues," Superintendent Munro said. "It's a very sobering time for all police but we are part of a respected professional service. Our staff are grieving but Derek's tragic death is not stopping us from fulfilling our job of policing our communities."

Superintendent Munro said multi faceted investigations are taking place into the circumstances of the death.

A 32-year-old man is appearing in the Porirua District Court at 11am today charged with:• aggravated robbery, relating to an assault in and the theft of a Honda Prelude in Tawa early this morning• dangerous driving• dangerous driving causing death• failing to stop to ascertain after a motor accident• a charge of kidnapping which relates to the second person in the vehicle, a 16 year old youth.

Bail will be opposed.

The coroner has been advised, and the Independent Police Conduct Authority. A preliminary IPCA inquiry will look at the conduct and actions of police staff, particularly around

Police are appealing for witnesses who saw the Honda Prelude driving in the Elsdon - Titahi Bay area between 2.45am and 3am today being pursued by police. There were other motorists in the area who had to move over to the side of the road as the vehicle headed to Titahi Bay and into Dimoch Street.

Witnesses are asked to call Porirua Police on: 04 238 1401.

ENDS

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