Motorcyclist critically injured in crash after being pepper sprayed by police in Tamworth

A teenage motorcyclist has been critically injured crashing into a parked car, right after he was pepper sprayed by police in regional New South Wales in the early hours of this morning.

The 18-year-old was stopped by police riding his motorbike on a footbridge in West Tamworth at 3.50am.

Police allege that the rider resisted arrest, prompting officers to deploy pepper spray.

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The teen then tried to ride off but crashed into a parked car nearby.

He was treated by paramedics at the scene before being taken to Tamworth Hospital in a critical condition.

He was later airlifted to John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle for further treatment.

A critical incident investigation team from Central North Police District has launched an investigation which will consider the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The investigation will be subject to an independent review.