Alleged driver found hiding after Coffs police chase

Officers and the Dog Unit found a man near Duke Street - after a pursuit involving an unregistered Holden. How it unfolded.

A man who hid in bushes after allegedly attempting to evade police after a chase at Coffs Harbour was among a handful of significant incidents from a special traffic operation over the long weekend.

The drama began when Highway Patrol officers detected an unregistered vehicle travelling on the Pacific Highway just after 3pm on Friday.

Police attempted to stop the car, but the driver kept going and a pursuit was begun.

The chase was quickly terminated due to police safety concerns - however the wanted vehicle, a Holden, was later found abandoned in Duke Street.

Officers, with the support of the Dog Unit, allege they found the driver hiding in nearby bushland.

Duke Street, Coffs Harbour.

A 24-year-old man was arrested and charged with police pursuit – not stop – drive dangerously, and drive motor vehicle during disqualification period.

He appeared at Port Macquarie Local Court on Saturday and was formally refused bail to appear at Coffs Harbour Local Court on Tuesday, June 14.

Across the Queen’s Birthday long weekend, 3197 people were issued infringement notices for speeding, and 273 people were charged with drink driving.

“Over the weekend, one person lost their life in a crash at Sutton Forest. While this is four less than the same period last year, it is still one person too many,” Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander Brett McFadden said.

“While the operation has now concluded, rest assured – we will continue to have our officers proactively patrolling the streets to take the appropriate action against those who drive dangerously.”

Northern region statistics from the long weekend

Speed infringements: 909

Breath tests: 36,436

PCA charges: 80

Major crashes: 57

Fatalities: 0