Two police officers in Lower Hutt are fortunate to have escaped injury after their patrol car was struck by a suspected drunk driver early Sunday morning.
The incident occurred around 1 a.m. on Waiwhetu Road when a vehicle, reportedly driven by a 29-year-old Upper Hutt man, crossed the centre line and collided with the side of the police car. The impact caused the patrol car to spin and sustain extensive damage.
The offending vehicle fled the scene but was located shortly after by police. A dog unit was deployed, leading to the swift apprehension of the suspect, who was arrested without further incident.
Inspector Simon de Wit, Relieving Area Commander for Te Awa Kairangi/Hutt Valley, commended the safety features of the patrol car for protecting the officers. “The safety features of the patrol car did what they are designed to do and protected the officers, but this could have been much worse,” he said.
Inspector de Wit also highlighted the broader implications of the crash, emphasizing the responsibilities of drivers. “This incident shows the impact the decisions you make as a driver can have on other people,” he added.
The patrol car, severely damaged in the collision, is expected to be written off. Meanwhile, the investigation into the crash continues, and the suspect now faces serious charges related to the incident.