In a remarkable display of courage, a 67-year-old employee tried to prevent a theft at The Red Shed Superstore in Dandenong South, Melbourne, earlier this week. CCTV footage shows the man attempting to thwart a thief who had entered the store around 3pm, posing as a customer.
According to witness Shane Russell, the suspect collected two chainsaws before attempting to leave the store without paying. Russell, driven by instinct to protect his workplace, followed the thief outside. “You can’t do that to us, that’s not fair,” he later remarked, reflecting on his decision to confront the robber.
Despite being pushed to the ground during the altercation, Russell remained determined and got back to his feet to continue his pursuit. Unfortunately, the thief managed to push him down again as he climbed into a waiting white car. A handful of bystanders rushed to help Russell, but the assailant sped off, leaving the scene with the stolen items and the car’s door still ajar.
The getaway vehicle reportedly ran a red light as it turned onto the busy Greens Road, evading capture. The thief and an accomplice made off with around $5,000 worth of equipment, while Russell sustained minor scratches from the incident.
Russell’s message to the thief was clear: “Go and get a job and earn your keep the correct way. Don’t do this to the people who work for a living.” As of now, the suspects are still at large, and police are continuing their investigation into the brazen theft.