Fleeing driver in Palmerston North leaves officer in critical condition

A police officer remains in critical condition after being struck by a fleeing driver in Palmerston North overnight, according to local authorities. The incident occurred around 2am on Amberley Avenue, when the officer was reportedly laid out with spikes on Kairanga Bunnythorpe Road. The driver, who had been signaled to stop, allegedly fled the scene before colliding with the officer’s vehicle, resulting in severe injuries. Superintendent Dion Bennett, Central District Commander, confirmed that the officer was airlifted to Wellington Hospital and placed on a ventilator. A second officer sustained minor injuries during the collision. Bennett stated that the vehicle involved in the crash was believed to have been stolen. The driver, identified as two individuals aged 14 and 15, were apprehended at the scene and are currently in custody. Further investigations are underway to determine the exact circumstances of the incident. The collision took place when the suspect vehicle, traveling eastbound on the wrong side of Kairanga Bunnythorpe Road, struck the police vehicle. The officer was thrown into the side of a parked car nearby. The Serious Crash Unit is conducting a scene examination, and part of the road remains closed. Local residents have expressed concern over the area’s history of serious accidents, citing several deadly intersections along the route. Mandy Shaw, a spokesperson for the Greater Bunnythorpe Committee, noted that while the incident occurred near the Kairanga end of the road, the broader stretch continues to pose significant safety risks. She emphasized the need for improved measures, especially since much of the road still operates under a 100 km/h speed limit. The committee has long advocated for such changes to enhance road safety. Police Commissioner Richard Chambers visited the injured officer in hospital and praised the professional response of the personnel involved. He acknowledged the dangers faced by officers in the line of duty and thanked the public for their support. Chambers plans to visit Palmerston North on Saturday to meet with the affected staff and offer further assistance. He also highlighted the importance of community backing, noting the overwhelming positive reaction from both locals and national supporters. Minister for Police Mark Mitchell has also traveled to Wellington to provide support to the officer’s family. He reiterated the inherent risks associated with policing and expressed solidarity with the officer’s loved ones. Mitchell emphasized that while these risks are unavoidable, the emotional toll of such incidents is profound. The Independent Police Conduct Authority has been informed of the incident, and a formal investigation is ongoing. Superintendent Bennett described the situation as “appalling” and praised the actions of the responding officers. The case is expected to lead to further scrutiny of traffic enforcement practices and road safety protocols in the region. Authorities continue to monitor the condition of the injured officer and are working to ensure all necessary legal steps are taken against the suspects.