Police have suspended a search operation for a man who pointed a shotgun at police following a pursuit south of Coffs Harbour today.
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Officers from Mid North Coast Highway Patrol stopped a white Toyota Hiace van on the Pacific Highway at North Macksville for a random breath test about 7.50am (Sunday 11 December 2016).
The driver left the scene in his vehicle and pursuit was initiated, during which a shotgun was aimed at police. No officers were injured.
The van was followed up a dirt road near Valla, about 35km south of Coffs Harbour, and a road block was established.
A short time later, the van approached the road block and the shotgun was again produced and aimed at police. The man was then seen driving into bushland.
A perimeter was established by officers from Mid North Coast and Coffs/Clarence Local Area Commands with assistance from PolAir and Traffic and Highway Patrol Command units.
The white van was located abandoned in bushland about 11am and has been secured for forensic analysis.
A search operation for the man was suspended about 4pm today.
Police would like to speak with 37-year-old David Bell, who it is believed can assist with the investigation into the incidents on Sunday, December 11.
David Bell may be armed and is also wanted on interstate warrants.
He is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 175-185cm tall with a solid build and brown hair and has tattoos on his fingers. He was last seen wearing a black top.
Police direct the public not to approach David Bell and, if sighted, to contact Triple Zero (000) immediately.
Police are urging anyone with information in relation to this incident to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page: https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au/ Information you provide will be treated in the strictest of confidence.