Police are investigating a serious crash in Kumeu last night, which has left four teenagers in hospital, two of whom remain in a critical condition.

The crash occurred around 8.20pm on Coatesville-Riverhead Highway, shortly after Police signalled a vehicle to stop due to the manner of driving. The vehicle fled and was not being pursued at the time of the crash.

A short time later, the vehicle lost control and crashed, coming to rest upside down against a residential property. Four nearby Police staff, who had been seizing a separate vehicle, heard the crash and responded immediately, locating the vehicle and providing first aid to those inside.

“This is a horrific incident with devastating consequences for the young people involved,” says Waitematā District Commander Superintendent Naila Hassan. “It is extremely fortunate that no other members of the public were injured.”

The Serious Crash Unit has completed a scene examination, and Police are conducting a full investigation into the cause of the crash and the events leading up to it. Due to the nature of the incident, the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) has been notified.

“We are supporting the families of those injured, and the officers who responded to this tragic scene,” Superintendent Hassan said. “We are still in the early stages of our investigation and expect it will take time to answer all the questions surrounding this incident.”

“At the heart of this is a tragic decision to flee Police. We want to reiterate—if you are signalled to stop, please pull over. No life is worth the risk.”

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