Chase deaths teen back in court

A 14-year-old has had new charges laid in Masterton District Court related to the road crash deaths of two Featherston boys. PHOTO/FILE

A 14-YEAR-OLD has been charged with dangerous driving causing the death of two Featherston boys.

The boy, who has automatic name suppression because of his age, appeared in Masterton Youth Court yesterday on three new charges, two of dangerous driving causing death and one of dangerous driving causing injury.

The boy has previously appeared on charges of driving while forbidden, failing to stop and getting into a vehicle unlawfully, and was remanded into the care of Child, Youth and Family last week.

Pacer Willacy-Scott and Hoani Korewha died when the car they were in crashed into a lamp post after a brief police pursuit in Masterton.

The two other boys in the car survived the crash, but were admitted to hospital.

In court yesterday, the boy's lawyer, Jock Blathwayt, said he was not in a position to enter any pleas as he had yet to receive all the information from police, including the Serious Crash Unit report.

Mr Blathwayt asked for a two-week remand to look at preparing a bail application.

The boy's mother and two other family members sat beside the boy during his court appearance, while other family members were seated in the public gallery. Crown prosecutor Emma Light said a medical report would be sought.

Addressing the family directly, Judge Tony Walsh said matters could not be taken any further until Mr Blathwayt received more information.

Judge Walsh said the court would consider the issue of bail at the boy's next appearance on February 24, but until then he was to remain in the care of Child, Youth and Family.