A riot squad officer has been injured apprehending a man who fled from police in a stolen vehicle.
Just after 10.45am this morning (Sunday, 30 November), NSW Police were patrolling at Brook Street, Naremburn, when they spotted a white 2021 Toyota Corolla that had been reported stolen.
The driver of the vehicle, a man in his 30s, was directed to pull over but allegedly failed to do so and a pursuit was initiated north towards Eastern Valley Way, Roseville, and across the Roseville Bridge.
The pursuit was terminated due to safety concerns at the manner of the man’s driving. It is believed the man proceeded through Frenchs Forest and Dee Why, heading north.
Police re-engaged the vehicle in pursuit and were spotted at Pittwater Road, Mona Vale. He reportedly continued north as far as Newport, before turning around and heading south along Pittwater Road.
The vehicle was spotted driving south, at times on the wrong side of the road. It is understood police boxed the vehicle into a roadblock with Public Order and Riot Squad Officers positioned at the intersection with Garden Street, North Narrabeen.
As the car drove south past the intersection of Jacksons Road, Warriewood, one resident reported the driver avoided road spikes being deployed by police.
Another person said the car veered onto the wrong side of the road near North Narrabeen High School, and was involved in a collision with another vehicle.
A group of teenage boys riding e-bikes in the area at the time said they saw the car drive up onto the footpath before the driver leapt from the still moving vehicle.
The boys said the man appeared to strip off clothing and run towards Narrabeen Lagoon, but was heavily tackled by police, including officers from the Public Order and Riot Squad who had blocked further escape.
One of the riot squad officers who apprehended the man was injured in the struggle, but the man was successfully detained. He was arrested and taken to Manly Police Station, where he continues to assist police with their inquiries.
NSW Ambulance were called to the scene, treating the injured police officer for a suspected dislocated right shoulder. Two highly skilled specialist paramedics, including NSW Ambulance Supervisor Ree Lane, were able to relocate his shoulder and he was placed in a sling.
The officer did not need to immediately be taken to hospital by ambulance, departing the scene with his colleagues, but it is understood he will require further treatment for the injury.
Police collected evidence at the scene, including items of discarded clothing, and evidence from within the vehicle. The car was towed from the scene and it is understood to have been impounded by police for further forensic examination.
Nine News also covered the chase on their 6.00pm bulletin this evening (video below).
Images: Northern Beaches Advocate
Video: Nine News
Editorial note: The original article referred to the man being in his 20s, but we are now aware he is in his 30s.
Hold up!
There is an updated version of this article with more up to date information.
NSW Police are seeking public assistance in relation to this matter. If you have any information that may assist them with their inquiries, please contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
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