Driver dies after smashing into tree following police pursuit in Bay of Plenty

May 11, 2018

The driver was observed speeding and then travelling with their lights off.

A driver is dead following a police chase in Bay of Plenty early today.

A car was spotted by police being driven at high speed near Kawerau around 3.30am, before later being seen without lights on.

Police tried to stop the driver, but they sped off, Superintendent Andy McGregor said. 

Police gave chase, and the fleeing driver lost control and crashed into a tree.

The sole occupant died at the scene.

Police say the chase was quickly abandoned after the driver rammed a cop car.

Is is the second person to die in a police pursuit this week, following an incident in New Plymouth on Monday.

Since 2010, it's believed 59 people have died following police pursuits. 

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