Runaway teen arrested by police

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 while facing serious charges over the death of an Auckland man has been arrested by police.

The teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was found by officers this morning.

Inspector Gary Allcock said the accused was located with ``assistance from his family'' and would face a special court sitting this afternoon.

The teenager has been charged with dangerous driving causing death in relation to a crash that killed 22-year-old Shaun Fitzpatrick, whose funeral was held today in Auckland.

He was allegedly the driver of a stolen Subaru Forester that was racing through industrial Mt Wellington early Saturday morning and smashed into Mr Fitzpatrick's car.

Mr Allcock said the teenager would likely face more charges as a result of his escape from the CYF home.

He left the scene of the crash but was arrested after family members took him to police later on Saturday.

CYF operations general manager Grant Bennett said yesterday the teenager "ran away'' from a supervised group home on Monday afternoon.

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