A 22-year-old man has been charged with manslaughter after he allegedly hit a pregnant woman and killed her baby girl whilst street racing in May.
The incident happened late on May 19 at the intersection of Bruce Roderick and Offenhauser drives in Auckland's East Tamaki.
Detective Senior Sergeant Dean Batey said the "vehicle that was allegedly involved in the illegal street racing struck a spectator, who was pregnant.
"The woman was taken to hospital in a serious condition and emergency surgical procedures were required to be carried out.
"Tragically, the baby girl did not even survive the day and succumbed to her catastrophic injuries.
"An investigation has been ongoing into the circumstances of what took place that night."
Police said the 22-year-old driver is already before the Manukau District Court on "numerous driving offences".
"While this case remains before the court, I would like to reiterate that illegal street racing causes great concern to police and our community — and for good reason," Batey said.
"Time and time again, police have issued warnings to those taking part in this illegal activity about the risks they are posing to themselves and others.
"This also extends to the spectators who are enabling this behaviour.
"Let this tragedy that occurred on May 19 be a reminder that the risks have very real consequences."
Police are also appealing to witnesses to come forward with any photos or videos of the incident.
Batey said: "While charges have been laid, police would still like to hear from witnesses who were at the scene at the time. We know a number of people were filming proceedings.
"Police have set up an online portal for witnesses to upload any photos or video from the time."
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