Photo: RNZ
A man has died in police custody after being tasered and pepper-sprayed during a chase.
The man had tried to flee from officers in Mount Maunganui about 12.30am on Wednesday, before ramming a squad car, police said in a statement.
Officers had earlier seen a “vehicle of interest” linked to a wanted man and watched it travel through Mount Maunganui before the driver stopped on Kaniere Street, Superintendent Will Loughrin said.
“The driver exited his vehicle and attempted to flee on foot unsuccessfully, before getting back into his vehicle and ramming a police vehicle, attempting to leave the scene.”
“A Taser and OC (Oleoresin Capsicum) spray was deployed in the process of the man being arrested.”
Superintendent Will Loughrin.
Photo: RNZ/ Nick Monro
During the journey to the Tauranga police station the man became unresponsive, police said.
Officers called for medical help immediately, Loughrin said, with an ambulance dispatched a minute later, at 12.42am.
“Police staff commenced CPR, with ambulance staff assuming medical care when they arrived shortly afterwards.”
The man was pronounced dead about an hour later.
“We send our heartfelt condolences to them following this tragic incident and will continue to offer them all the necessary support at this difficult time.”
“There will be a number of enquiries to undertake as we determine the specifics of the exact series of events and circumstances which have preceded the man’s death.”
Worksafe had also been notified, Loughrin said, and police staff who were there were being offered support.
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