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Knife-Wielding Man Found Hiding Up Tree After Ramming Police Car

Written by RNZ | Jan 10, 2025 1:19:10 AM

A man who allegedly stole a vehicle at knife-point drove dangerously through northern Auckland and rammed a police car has been found hiding up a tree.

Officers eventually had to use police dogs and pepper spray the subdue the man after the incident on Thursday, police said.

Just after 5.30pm, police spotted a vehicle at a service station in Red Beach that was earlier stolen at knife-point in Henderson.

Acting detective inspector Simon Harrison, Waitematā CIB, said the car sped off when police signalled it to stop.

 

"The police eagle helicopter was able to track the vehicle as it drove at high speed and in a dangerous manner around the Waitematā North area.

"The vehicle was then observed in Warkworth at about 7pm where it allegedly rammed a patrol car parked on Radiata Road.

"Thankfully no one was injured, however, these types of situations are extremely concerning for our staff."

Acting detective inspector Harrison said police then lost track of the driver after he fled into a nearby bush on foot.

Police picked up his trail around 2.15am near Hodgart Road after a tip-off from the public.

"Eagle located the male loitering around the address, where he ran into a nearby bush area and up a tree.

"The male was aggressive towards staff and OC spray was used as he continued to resist arrest.

"The man suffered a minor dog bite and was transported to hospital for treatment.

A 35-year-old man will appear in Waitākere District Court today charged with aggravated robbery, failing to stop, dangerous driving, aggravated assault, two counts of assaults with a weapon and resisting police.