Police in Christchurch are hunting for a driver who abandoned a stolen caravan in the middle of the Southern Motorway, causing significant disruption during Tuesday's morning rush hour.
The incident unfolded around 7:30 AM when officers spotted the reportedly stolen vehicle travelling northbound near the Curletts Road on-ramp. What followed was a dramatic sequence of events that would bring one of the city's key transport arteries to a standstill.
Motorway Mayhem
According to police reports, the driver made the reckless decision to stop the caravan in the left lane of the motorway before fleeing the scene on foot. The abandoned vehicle blocked crucial traffic flow, forcing authorities to close the entire northbound section between Curletts Road and Annex Road.
"The driver made the poor decision to stop the caravan in the left lane and run from police," confirmed a police spokesperson. "We are making enquiries to identify the driver."
Commuters Face Lengthy Delays
The timing couldn't have been worse for Christchurch commuters. The closure during peak travel hours created traffic chaos, with motorists facing lengthy delays and being forced to seek alternative routes.
Police worked urgently to clear the obstruction, but the recovery operation proved challenging given the vehicle's position and the need to conduct forensic examinations at the scene.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have confirmed the caravan had been reported stolen, though specific details about when and where the theft occurred remain part of the active investigation.
Police are appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about the driver's identity to come forward. The brazen nature of the abandonment in broad daylight suggests witnesses may have captured crucial details or footage.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of how quickly criminal activity can impact essential infrastructure and disrupt the daily lives of hundreds of commuters.
