Police are appealing for witnesses to an alleged hit-and-run at a pedestrian crossing in Rotorua that left a sight- and hearing-impaired man in a critical condition over the weekend.
The motorcyclist allegedly overtook a stationary vehicle and struck the 24-year-old pedestrian as he crossed Edmund Rd in Mangakakahi at around 2.15pm on Sunday.
Police said the rider then performed a U-turn, rode back towards the crossing, and fled the scene without stopping or checking on the victim.
St John said two ambulances, one rapid response unit, and one helicopter responded to the incident.
“Our crews assessed and treated one patient who was airlifted to Waikato Hospital in a critical condition.”
Edmund Rd was closed while emergency services attended.
Police today released an image of the motorcycle and rider believed to be involved in the incident.
Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Phil Wilkinson said police had a large team currently in the early stages of gathering evidence around the circumstances of the crash.
“We would like the rider to do the right thing, come forward and speak to us about what happened.
“Someone will know who this rider is and police are appealing to those people to act on their conscience and contact us.”
Wilkinson said CCTV footage of the motorcycle shortly after the crash showed it turning left onto Clayton Rd and travelling in the direction of Gem St.
“The family of the injured man are understandably upset about this incident and are urging people to come forward.”
Anyone who witnessed the crash or recognises the motorcycle and/or rider should contact police on 105.