A crash that injured four people -- including two children -- and closed a busy Auckland road yesterday was caused by a stolen car driven by 15-year-olds wanted by the police.
The vehicle failed to negotiate the intersection of Browns and Orams Rds, off Great South Rd, and crashed into three parked cars about 2.30pm.
A St John spokeswoman said four people were transferred to Middlemore Hospital. Two patients had minor injuries and two had moderate injuries, she said.
Police said two 15-year-olds ran from the crash scene but were stopped 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," a statement said.
"The pursuit was abandoned approximately 1km before the crash due to the dangerous manner of driving."
Inspector Julia Lynch, central area commander for Counties Manukau police, said both offenders were in breach of their bail conditions and had been wanted by police in relation to other matters before the crash.
The two boys will face various charges at the Manukau Youth Court and the incident will be referred to the Independent Police Conduct Authority.
Ms Lynch said the incident demonstrated the tragic consequences that could 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 ...
"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."
By Morgan Tait of the New Zealand Herald
