A person has died following an incident on the South Western Motorway about 3.20am. Photo / Hayden Woodward
A homicide investigation has been launched over the death of a 19-year-old woman at the scene of a crash on Auckland’s southwestern motorway earlier today.
Police were alerted to the incident on State Highway 20 in Auckland around 3.20am.
A police spokesperson said they were advised the car had crashed, and found the dead woman at the scene. An earlier press release described it as a “serious incident” and said one person had been arrested.
A 20-year-old man was helping with their inquiries.
Counties Manukau field crime manager Detective Inspector Warrick Adkin said police were now making a public appeal to anyone who might have been driving on the motorway at the time.
“We are appealing to any witnesses with dash cameras to review their footage and contact us if they have any imagery that may assist with our investigation,” Adkin said.
He also said inquiries and the car examination were ongoing.
Formal identification processes were also taking place.
They said those with information could fill out an online report online with the reference 221226/9917 or provide details anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
“Police extend our sincere condolences to the deceased woman’s friends and family at this difficult time,” said Adkin.
A witness said the vehicle involved had come to a halt facing the wrong way on the motorway.
“A team of police staff including Serious Crash Unit, photography and detectives were at the scene, and the vehicle had moderate damage to the front. The boot was also open.”
The road between Puhinui and SH20B onramp and also the Roscommon Rd and Cavendish Drive onramp was closed for several hours while police carried out their investigation, causing disruption for airport traffic which was forced to use an alternate southern route.
Police investigate the scene where a woman's body was found this morning. Photo / Hayden Woodward
Motorists were advised to avoid the area and take alternative routes where possible.
It’s the second violent incident to claim a life in South Auckland in just 24 hours after a man died in a fight in Takanini early on Christmas morning.
Police are also appealing for witnesses after emergency services found the 57-year-old with critical injuries on Airfield Rd about 12.40am after reports of disorder and fighting.
Despite attempts to save him the man died a short time later.
Adkin said police would like to speak to anyone who witnessed the event or anyone in the area with security or dash cameras for police to review the footage.
