A crash at a busy Christchurch intersection escalated when a man allegedly went on a carjacking spree in the suburb of Papanui last night, pulling drivers from their seats, abandoning vehicles and attempting to steal others before police caught up with him.
Police were called to Queen Elizabeth II Dr at around 9.35pm on Wednesday after a man allegedly stole another person's vehicle following a three-vehicle crash.
Senior Sergeant Hamish Keer-Keer said the offender allegedly crashed into two stopped vehicles at the intersection with Main North Rd before approaching another car involved in the crash.
"The man has forced the driver from the car before leaving the area in the vehicle."
The stolen car was then abandoned on Harewood Rd where the man allegedly attempted the theft of a second vehicle, pulling a person from the driver's seat.
Keer-Keer said the man, who was unsuccessful in taking the vehicle, then allegedly attempted to steal three further vehicles.
"Fortunately, these drivers were able to drive away to safety."
Officers located the man on Papanui Rd where he was arrested without incident.
Cannabis and items indicating supply were located following a search of the man's first vehicle on Queen Elizabeth II Dr.
Keer-Keer said police continued to make inquiries into the incident.
"While there were no serious injuries, a number of people have been left shaken by this incident and police are providing them with support."
The 28-year-old man was due to appear in Christchurch District Court today charged with possession of cannabis for supply, careless driving, driving in a dangerous manner, two counts of failing to stop or ascertain injury, and two counts of robbery.
Anyone with relevant information on this incident was asked to contact police on 105.
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