Joyrider dies in Hamilton after police chase

A night-time joyride in Hamilton ended in tragedy with the death of a 30-year-old man in a high-speed crash. Just minutes before the crash, police were pursuing Clay Peter Bowsher's white 1996 Nissan Skyline. The matter is being investigated by the Police Complaints Authority.

Bowsher lost control of the Skyline along Anglesea St around 3am on Friday. The car skidded into the forecourt of a car dealership, causing an estimated $80,000 worth of damage. The driver was found hanging out of the car window and was taken to Waikato Hospital with life-threatening injuries.

Police began chasing the Skyline after hearing a loud squealing of tyres. An unmarked patrol car followed the car when it crossed to the wrong side of a road. The patrol car driver abandoned the pursuit after 15 seconds over worries the Skyline was exceeding 160km/h.

Family members of the Hamilton East sandblaster turned off his life-support machine around 7am yesterday. The Herald on Sunday understands Bowsher is survived by his girlfriend and 5-year-old son.