A man has been left critically injured after confronting a burglar at his home in Wellington.
The alleged suspect fled on foot, with police saying an 18-year-old had been arrested shortly afterwards. The teenager sustained minor injuries from a police dog bite.
The incident happened at Buckley Rd in Southgate about 3.30am on Sunday when the victim found a person on his property.
Inspector David Thornton said it appeared the man was attempting to restrain the burglar when he was injured.
He was taken to hospital in a critical condition. Capital, Coast and Hutt Valley regional hospital afterhours has since confirmed he is in a stable condition.
The alleged suspect fled on foot and cordons were put in place while a police dog unit responded, Thornton said.
“Within 20 minutes, the suspect was tracked to a nearby location and was taken into custody. He received minor injuries from a dog bite.”
An 18-year-old man has been arrested and is due to appear in court on Monday. He is charged with several offences and police could not rule out further charges.
Some neighbours appeared shaken but were glad police had arrested someone.
Residents said police officers had been knocking on their doors to see if they had any further information.
The driveway of the house was reportedly cordoned off on Sunday morning, but all that remained on Sunday afternoon was a small bit of white tape.
Thornton said it was a traumatic event and police were working closely with the man’s wife and family.
“While we have made an arrest, we realise this will also be unsettling for some in the area and officers will be conducting reassurance patrols over the coming days.”
Police wanted people in the area with CCTV cameras to review the footage and make contact if they had any images from about 3.30am to assist with inquiries.
“In particular, we believe the alleged suspect may have travelling in a Suzuki Swift, which was found parked across the road, still running. Inquiries have established this vehicle has been unlawfully taken,” Thornton said.
Police remained in the area on Sunday to undertake scene examinations at the address and would be conducting an area canvas of the street to obtain further information.
Police encouraged anyone with information to contact them by calling 105, or by filling out a report online at www.police.govt.nz/use-105, using ‘Update My Report’. People should reference 221211/9888.
Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
The 19-year-old disappeared without her wallet or mobile phone.