Driver in fatal police pursuit dies

File photo / Martin Sykes

The driver of a car that crashed while fleeing a police patrol car in Christchurch more than two weeks ago has died from his injuries in hospital.

Tama Regan Dobson, 27, died in Christchurch Hospital today after his life support was turned off.

Mr Dobson was the second person involved in the crash to die. Shannon Smiler-O'Connor, 26, died at the scene.

Police said a patrol car stopped the Mitsubishi Lancer for a routine check on Manchester Street about 1am on July 10, but the car sped away as officers approached it.

After pursuing the car for a few streets, police found the car smashed into a concrete pole at the intersection of Manchester St and Moorhouse Avenue.

Mr Smiler-O'Connor, who was the front-seat passenger, was killed on impact, while Mr Dobson was taken to hospital in a critical condition.

Police and the Independent Conduct Authority (IPCA) are investigating the crash.

- NZPA




\NZP