Two Police Officers Injured at Levin Burnout Meet Amid Violent Clashes

On Saturday night, a large gathering of over 200 cars in Levin, New Zealand, escalated into violence, resulting in injuries to two police officers and the impounding of six vehicles. The incident began around 8 pm when the cars converged at the intersection of Queen Street and State Highway 57 to perform burnouts.

Approximately 30 police officers were deployed to the area pre-emptively, anticipating potential disturbances. However, the situation quickly turned dangerous when the crowd exhibited aggressive behavior. Rocks and bottles were thrown at the police, causing injuries to two officers and damage to two patrol cars.

Why this matters: The incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in managing illegal and anti-social street racing activities, which can lead to public safety risks and community disruptions. If left unchecked, such events can escalate into more severe violence and damage to property.

Inspector Ross Grantham, Manawatū area commander, expressed concern over the incident, stating, "This is incredibly concerning, as it indicates that the crowd was not just car enthusiasts, but included people out to deliberately provoke, aggravate, and endanger."

The convoy of vehicles moved to multiple locations, including Miro Street in Ōtaki and the intersection of State Highway 57 and Tavistock Road in Levin, where they continued to perform burnouts and block roads. Police efforts to disrupt the activities were met with increased violence, including the throwing of bottles, rocks, and bricks at officers.

Two individuals were arrested during the chaos. One person was charged with disorderly behavior, and another was charged with obstruction. The latter was allegedly found in possession of a flick knife. Additionally, six cars were impounded as part of the police response.

Inspector Grantham emphasized the risks faced by the officers, stating, "Police absolutely understand the stress and concern illegal and anti-social street racing causes members of the community, and we are committed to disrupting this activity by breaking it up when it occurs, and holding offenders to account."

The violence and disorder witnessed in Levin are atypical, according to Horowhenua mayor Bernie Wanden, who expressed his disapproval, "As for the violence and the disorder, this is, for sure, out of the ordinary, and something that we're pretty disgusted as a community having had to put up with."

The incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in managing illegal and anti-social street racing activities. Police have committed to using footage and other evidence gathered during the event to pursue further action against those involved.

The events in Levin highlight the need for continued vigilance and proactive measures to address the dangers posed by such gatherings. The community and law enforcement must work together to ensure public safety and prevent future incidents of this nature.

Key Takeaways

• 200+ cars gathered in Levin, NZ, for burnouts, escalating into violence.
• 2 police officers injured, 6 cars impounded, and 2 arrests made.
• Rocks, bottles, and bricks thrown at police, causing damage to patrol cars.
• Police committed to disrupting illegal street racing, using footage as evidence.
• Community and law enforcement must work together to ensure public safety.