TRUCK FIRE IGNITES POLICE CHASE IN ROWVILLE
A truck fire in Rowville has triggered a major police pursuit across Melbourne’s south-east, with the Air Wing tracking suspects from above.
Emergency services responded after a truck was allegedly set alight beneath the Wellington Road overpass in Rowville.
However, the incident quickly escalated into a prolonged police persuit through multiple suburbs.
Air Wing Tracks Vehicles Over Rowville
Knox Crime Investigation Unit detectives allege officers first spotted two vehicles driving erratically in Heathmont just after 2am.
The vehicles included an allegedly stolen truck and a blue Holden Commodore.
Soon after, both vehicles sped off, prompting an immediate police response.
Importantly, the Air Wing located the vehicles on Eastlink in Rowville.
As a result, ground units coordinated with aerial support to track their movements.
Truck Set Alight Before Escape
Police allege the offenders set the truck on fire beneath the Wellington Road overpass.
Then, the group fled the scene in the Commodore, leaving the burning vehicle behind.
Consequently, emergency crews attended to contain the blaze while police continued the pursuit.
Pursuit Spans South-East Suburbs
Police followed the Commodore through Dandenong, Narre Warren, and Springvale.
After that, the vehicle travelled towards Port Phillip Bay.
The car reached Port Melbourne before turning back towards St Kilda.
However, the pursuit ended when the vehicle lost control on Beach Road near Dow Street.
Arrests Made After Foot Pursuits
A 30-year-old Dromana man and a 33-year-old Tootgarook woman allegedly fled on foot.
However, officers arrested both nearby soon after.
During the arrest, a police dog bit the man.
He was then transported to hospital under police guard.
Meanwhile, a second man, aged 30 from Rosebud, briefly continued driving.
He later stopped, fled onto the beach, and entered the water.
Officers from the Critical Incident Response Team and Dog Squad located and arrested him.
Trio Charged and Investigation Continues
Detectives have charged all three individuals with theft of a motor vehicle.
They were bailed to appear at Ringwood Magistrates’ Court on the 5th of May.
Meanwhile, investigators continue to examine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
Anyone with information should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Alternatively, submit a confidential report online.
