Auckland, New Zealand – A man has died after falling from the Newmarket Viaduct on the Southern Motorway in the early hours of this morning. The incident occurred shortly after the man was allegedly observed speeding by police.
Police investigation launched into fatal fall
A man died after falling from Auckland’s Newmarket Viaduct, prompting a critical incident investigation by police.
Key Takeaways
- A man died after falling from the Newmarket Viaduct on Auckland’s Southern Motorway.
- Police observed the man speeding shortly before the incident.
- The man exited his vehicle and fell from the viaduct before police arrived.
- An Independent Police Conduct Authority investigation has been initiated.
The events unfolded just before 1 a.m. today. A stationary police car conducting speed checks near Greenlane on the Southern Motorway detected a vehicle traveling at “excessive speed.”
Superintendent Zane Hooper stated that the police unit activated its lights and pursued the speeding vehicle. Camera operators were also engaged to monitor its movements.
The speeding vehicle reportedly collided with the centre barrier on the Newmarket Viaduct. It then moved to the left side of the motorway and came to a stop.
“The police unit that was some distance behind initially passed the stationary vehicle, which was obscured by a passing truck, and was advised by camera operators,” Hooper said. The driver then exited the vehicle.
Before the police unit could reach the stopped car, a camera operator observed the man climb over the motorway barrier. He then either fell or dropped to the ground below the overbridge.
The Newmarket Viaduct stands 23 meters above the street at its highest point.
Police patrols were immediately dispatched to the commercial area beneath the flyover. Officers provided first aid to the man, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
“This is a tragic event for all those attending staff and welfare has been put in place for our people,” Hooper added.
Police have notified the Independent Police Conduct Authority, which will investigate the circumstances surrounding the man’s death.
