Fatal crash teen back in court

The teenager has been charged with dangerous driving causing death. Photo / Jason Dorday

A 15-year-old who escaped from Child Youth and Family custody after allegedly crashing a stolen car and killing a man in Auckland could face further charges.

The teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, appeared at the Auckland Youth Court today.

Police withdrew two charges against him including dangerous driving causing death and failing to stop after an accident to check for injuries.

But Judge Tony Fitzgerald said the matter would be adjourned for two weeks to give police time to consider what charges they would replace them with.

He ordered a social worker's report to be prepared and remanded the teen into the custody of Child Youth and Family (CYFs).

The teenager is accused of driving a stolen Subaru Forester that was racing through industrial Mt Wellington early on January 7 when it smashed into Shaun Fitzpatrick.

Mr Fitzpatrick did not survive the crash at the intersection of Carbine Rd and the Southeastern Highway.

The teen was put into CYF custody but later escaped.

CYF operations general manager Grant Bennett said last week the teenager "ran away'' from a supervised group home.

He was supposed to be monitored around the clock but took advantage of a "brief opportunity'' to abscond.

Police have said they caught up with the teen after help from his family.

He is due to reappear in the Youth Court next month.