Alleged drunk driver crashed through doors of police station

A 43-year-old man from Taumarunui, New Zealand, appeared in court on Thursday morning on excess breath alcohol and wilful damage charges after crashing his vehicle through the front doors of Taumarunui Police station.



No-one was injured during the incident, which happened just before 1am on Thursday. The station was closed at the time and no staff were inside. Wanganui Area Commander Inspector Steve Mastrovich said police in the town were already responding to reports of the man driving at speed up and down the town's main street just before the incident occurred.



After the vehicle crashed through the front doors and into the foyer area of the police station, the man ran off, but was apprehended by officers a short time later. Mr Mastrovich said the man was heavily intoxicated at the time and it was unclear what his motivation was. "We are still making inquiries into what happened," Mr Mastrovich said.



"The station has been there more than 20 years, but this is the first time anything like this has happened." Mr Mastrovich said. Police would be reviewing security measures at the station following the incident, which had caused an estimated $10,000 - $20,000 worth of damage, he added.