A man "highly motivated to avoid arrest" in Dunedin yesterday – leading police to police to fire a shot while attempting to stop him – is due to appear in court.
The 46-year-old had been sought over a series of offences committed in the Otago coastal area over recent days.
He was due to appear in the Dunedin District Court tomorrow, Superintendent Jason Guthrie said this evening.
The man has been charged with assaulting police; failing to stop for police; driving a motor vehicle in a dangerous manner; and driving while disqualified a third and subsequent time.
Officers involved in the operation to locate the man saw him at a commercial premises on Kaikorai Valley Rd at approximately 6pm on Wednesday and attempted to arrest him.
Guthrie said the suspect drove his vehicle towards the patrol car and officers in his efforts to avoid arrest.
In response, police said they used a range of tactical options, including firing a shot from a police pistol.
"No other shots were fired in the incident, and nobody was injured," he said.
The man fled in the vehicle, which was later found in nearby Brockville after it was spiked.
He then fled on foot into the bush before being captured soon after by a police dog team in the Fraser's Gully area.
"Police want to reassure the community that there is no ongoing public safety risk following this incident," Guthrie said.
"This was a very dynamic incident involving an offender who was highly motivated to avoid arrest and police staff are commended for their efforts in safely resolving this incident."
Guthrie said a critical incident investigation was launched, and the incident would be referred to the Independent Police Conduct Authority, as was standard procedure for any matter involving the firing of a police gun.
The morning's headlines in 90 seconds, including new heat on Trump over the Epstein files, the Black Caps score a big win at the T20 World Cup, and how to live your own Heated Rivalry fantasy. (Source: Breakfast)
SHARE ME