A “catastrophic event” was only narrowly avoided in Christchurch after the driver of an SUV ran through a red arrow while a child began to bolt across the road.
Video of the incident, shared by police on social media, showed the grey SUV turn right despite a red arrow — while the green walk signal was active at the crossing.
As the vehicle turned, a child began to run across the road, stopping just before meeting the SUV, which continued to drive over the crossing.
The child then walked back to their family waiting at the lights.
“This could have been a catastrophic event and would have had horrific consequences if the child had not been called back by their parent,” police said.
A spokesperson said the incident was a reminder for motorists to be cautious at intersections.
“We urge road users to take extreme care at intersections, especially during school drop-off and pick-up times, and make sure you are reading the lights and road signage correctly.”
They said police wanted to speak to the driver of the SUV, and asked anyone with information on the vehicle, or its driver, to call 105.
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