Four hurt after stolen car crashes in Auckland

Four people were injured after a stolen van crashed into three cars following an abandoned police pursuit in Manurewa. Photo / SNPA / Grahame Clark

A crash that hospitalised four people - including two children - and closed a busy Auckland road today was caused by a stolen car driven by 15-year-old wanted offenders.

The stolen car failed to negotiate the intersection of Browns and Orams Rd, off Great South Rd, when it crashed into the three parked cars about 2.30pm.

A St John spokeswoman said four people were being transferred to Middlemore Hospital.

Two patients had minor injuries and two patients had moderate injuries, she said.

In a statement, police said two 15-year-olds ran from the scene but were stopped by police staff and a member of the public at a nearby petrol station.

"Police had previously attempted to pull the car over in nearby suburb Weymouth and had been following the vehicle with sirens and flashing red and blue lights for approximately two minutes," the statement said.

"The pursuit was abandoned approximately 1km before the crash due to the dangerous manner of driving."

Counties Manukau Police Central Area Commander Inspector Julia Lynch said both offenders are in breach of their bail conditions and had been wanted by Police in relation to other matters before the crash.

The two boys will be facing various charges at the Manukau Youth Court and the incident will be referred to the Independent Police Conduct Association.

Ms Lynch said that this incident demonstrates the tragic consequences that can result from people having a blatant disregard for public safety and the law.

"There have been a number of incidents throughout greater Auckland recently where young people have been found driving stolen vehicles, some children as young as 13.

"This is a hugely dangerous practice and today has shown that it is only a matter of time before someone is seriously injured or killed.

She said police never want to be knocking on doors delivering news of a tragedy to anyone's family.

For this reason we are working closely with our partners to actively engage the young people in our District who are committing offences like what we have seen today.

"We urge all parents and caregivers to take responsibility for your children and ensure they are safe at home or in school rather than putting themselves and the public at risk in stolen vehicles.

"Our thoughts are with those motorists who have been injured in today's crash and we wish them a fast recovery."

The affected area of Great South Rd was still closed and motorists were advised to take alternate routes.