It was an unsettled night for some Gore residents, when they woke to "crashing and banging" on their property.
Two guns were stolen from a police car overnight, after police attempted to stop a vehicle just before midnight on Wednesday.
The driver rammed the patrol car before fleeing on foot, with officers also chasing on foot. The offender then stole a patrol vehicle and rammed another police car, before abandoning the vehicle a short while later, taking two police-issued Glock pistols with him.
Neil Sowry said the wanted man, 24-year-old Hori Gemmell, went into his backyard on Wednesday night in a bid to evade police after the pursuit.
Sowry told Newshub the offender first ran down his driveway.
"He's obviously gone round the back, realised it's a totally enclosed yard [with] nowhere to go."
Sowry said the offender also kicked a hole in his gate to crawl through it.
Gore Mayor Tracy Hicks is advising residents to ensure their properties and vehicles are locked as the manhunt continues.
"We just need to be sensible, use our commonsense, and look after each other."
Hicks said the community is surprised the incident has happened in their peaceful community.
Southern District Commander Superintendent Paul Basham said Gemmell is dangerous and should not be approached.
Residents should report any suspicious activities, Spt Basham said.
Newshub.
