Illegal street racing: 18 year old dead, car crashes into Rangiora house

An teenage girl is dead following a “fleeing driver” event in Waimakariri.

Canterbury Rural Area Commander Inspector Peter Cooper said the crash happened after police were called to a report of illegal street racing activity in the Fernside area just before 4.45 this morning.

Police followed an offending vehicle for a short time but then stopped due to the manner of driving and the urban environment.

The vehicle was found crashed into the side of a house on McIvor Place, Rangiora after it appeared to have hit a tree.

No-one in the house was hurt. There were four people in the car.

An 18-year-old female passenger died at the scene. Police are liaising with the family of the deceased.

An 18-year-old man has been arrested and is being questioned by police.

The Christchurch Press reported that the car had a “pink sticker” on it, meaning it wasn’t road worthy and it was illegal for the driver to be using the vehicle.

Two other people were uninjured and are speaking to Police. Several investigations will now take place.