Police are investigating whether alcohol was a factor in a stolen car crash that left six teenagers in hospital with serious injuries.
The car smashed in a tree as the occupants fled early yesterday from a police operation in south Auckland clamping down on car theft.
The 15-year-old unlicensed driver sped away from a cordon as he was approached by an officer in the Hill St area of Manurewa.
Shortly afterwards, he lost control of the car, which police confirmed was stolen on Sunday night, and smashed into a tree.
Inspector Heather Wells of Counties Manukau police said blood was being taken from the group to determine if alcohol was involved.
She said it was unclear how fast the car was going, but an officer pursuing it was left 600 metres being in a matter of seconds.
The driver, who had to be cut from the car, suffered serious leg injuries.
His five passengers were treated for less serious injuries, with three discharged yesterday.
"They are very lucky they weren't hurt more seriously," Ms Wells said.
Police had yet to lay charges.
