A pedestrian who was struck and critically injured during what police have described as an “anti-social road user event” remains in critical condition, while people who may have video evidence of the incident are reportedly facing online threats.
According to a report by Stuff, Police were called shortly after midnight on Saturday following reports that a vehicle had collided with a person on Halcombe Rd, north of Feilding.
A man was found at the scene with extensive injuries and was taken to hospital. Police told Stuff on Tuesday that he remains in the Intensive Care Unit at Wellington Hospital in a critical but stable condition.
The vehicle involved had left the scene before police arrived.
Detective David Burrows said the investigation was continuing, with officers following several lines of inquiry. Police are appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident or has information that could assist the investigation to come forward, Stuff has reported.
Videos believed to have been recorded during the event have also circulated online.
One video seen by Stuff did not show the collision itself, but appeared to show cars performing doughnuts and skids dangerously close to people watching nearby.
A person who had shared the footage later said they removed it after being approached by Stuff, citing the “heat” they were receiving.
Police have now raised concerns about social media activity targeting people who may hold evidence.
Detective Burrows said, “We understand that there has been social media activity online including generic threats to those with possible evidence, which has resulted in continued reluctance to assist police with this matter, as quoted by Stuff.
“We encourage everyone to think of the victim and family members, and come forward if you have anything you believe could assist with this investigation,” Stuff said.
Police continue to seek witnesses, and anyone with relevant footage or information is being urged to contact them, Stuff has reported.