Motorcyclist killed after police chase named

A motorcyclist who was killed after a police chase in Palmerston North last night ended in a high-speed crash has been named.

He was Martyn Dillon, 22, from Palmerston North.

His female passenger is in a serious but stable condition.

Police attempted to stop Mr Dillon as he pulled away from traffic lights on Ruahine St at about 11.15pm, said Palmerston North police area commander Pat Handcock.

He then accelerated to "very high speeds" and police briefly gave chase before abandoning the pursuit, he said.

"It appears that the police patrol lost contact with the motorcyclist almost immediately due to the heavy acceleration of the motorcycle."

Mr Dillon lost control of the motorcycle and crashed into a fence on the corner of John F Kennedy Drive and Milson Line, Mr Handcock said.

He died at the scene and his female passenger, who had not been wearing a helmet, was taken to Palmerston North Hospital.

He had earlier been speeding and the motorcycle was stolen, Mr Handcock said.

The Serious Crash Unit are examining the scene and there may be disruptions to traffic.

Police have spoken to a number of witnesses and are asking for anyone who saw the incident to contact them.

The matter will be referred to the Independent Police Conduct Authority.

- NZPA, NZ HERALD STAFF