One person has died and another is critically injured after crashing while fleeing police in Auckland's Papatoetoe overnight.
Relieving Counties Manukau District Commander Inspector Alison Brand said police signalled for the vehicle to stop on Davies Ave around 11.40pm after officers noticed the vehicle travelling with stolen plates.
She said the vehicle stopped for a short time and officers spoke to the driver, "however the vehicle did not remain and left the area at speed towards Ronwood Ave".
Lights were activated and police were preparing to deploy spikes, however the vehicle swerved and crashed into a tree on Lambie Dr.
Brand said emergency services responded but, despite efforts, the driver died at the scene.
One passenger received critical injuries and was taken to hospital.
"There are now several investigations underway, including a critical incident investigation and a policy, practice, and procedure investigation, as well as a Serious Crash investigation.
"As is standard procedure in these circumstances, the Independent Police Conduct Authority has been notified of the incident," said Brand.
Lambie Dr reopened this morning after being closed for a scene examination.
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