Police have shared footage of a driver speeding through the Auckland CBD moments before their vehicle crashed into a stationary police car and hit a pole this morning.
Three people were injured – one seriously – in the crash which took place on Victoria St near the intersection of Albert St around 5.40am.
The footage showed the red vehicle blowing through the red lights on Victoria St outside the TVNZ office at high speed, weaving between traffic, and driving on the wrong side of the road.
At one point, a pedestrian waiting at a crossing had to step back as the vehicle sped past.
Police said after the video ended, the vehicle continued down the hill towards Queen St, where it collided with a stationary police car waiting at a red light.
A witness at the scene told 1News she saw a vehicle crash into a pole.
“The crash has caused extensive damage to both vehicles,” police said.
“Police want to make it clear the vehicle was not being pursued.”
CCTV shows car speeding through Auckland CBD just before hitting police car – Watch on TVNZ+
St John said three patients were assessed at the scene.
One person in a serious condition and two others in a moderate condition were taken to Auckland City Hospital.
A fourth declined an assessment by the crews.
A police officer who was driving the patrol car when it was crashed into by the speeding vehicle received minor injuries, while their partner in the passenger seat got away unscathed.
“Our staff were heading back towards base to finish off their shift when the incident occurred,” a police spokesperson said.
“Police have put support in place for our staff, making sure welfare is available to them should they need it.”
Serious crash shuts busy Auckland CBD intersections – Watch on TVNZ+
Police, Fire and Emergency New Zealand, and St John were all at the scene.
Victoria St was closed between Queen and Hobson streets, just as many commuters were set to begin their drive into the city.
The serious crash unit was in attendance.
The morning’s headlines in 90 seconds, including a serious crash closes roads in central Auckland, how smugglers try to sneak cigarettes into the country, and Zelensky’s message at the UN. (Source: Breakfast)
