A car following an accident in Hastings, September 2023. Photo: Police / Supplied
Five people are hurt but lucky to be alive, police say, after a crash involving "almost every factor known to contribute to fatal crashes" and attacking first responders.
The single-vehicle crash happened at the end of Ormond Road, Hastings, near the Ngaruroro River on Tuesday afternoon.
"The five occupants of the car were very lucky to have only suffered moderate to serious injuries," Acting Senior Sergeant Darren Pritchard said.
Speed was a factor, as was alcohol and seatbelts not being worn, he said.
"From what we know so far, we can advise the car was travelling at high speed prior to the crash. The driver lost control and the car rolled several times.
"At least one of the passengers was ejected from the car in the crash."
All five in the car, aged 14 to 27, were hospitalised - two with serious injuries.
"I'm also incredibly disappointed that those involved in the crash assaulted police and ambulance staff who responded to the crash and were trying to help them," says Acting Senior Sergeant Pritchard.
"There is absolutely no excuse for such behaviour."
So far in 2023, 262 people have lost their lives on the road.