A 36-year-old man from Point Cook has been charged with nearly 50 offences following a high-speed chase through Melbourne after allegedly stealing a van early last Friday morning. The pursuit began around 5:40 am, with the stolen vehicle reportedly being driven dangerously and at high speeds. Throughout the morning, it collided with multiple parked cars and other vehicles, although fortunately, no serious injuries were reported.
The accused faces a significant list of charges, including theft of a motor vehicle, 12 counts of reckless conduct endangering life, and 17 counts of reckless conduct endangering serious injury. He is also charged with unlicensed driving and two counts of committing an indictable offence while on bail.
Following an intense hours-long chase that spanned various suburbs including Footscray, Port Melbourne, and Dandenong, the incident concluded around 1 pm on Dunnings Road in Point Cook. The van came to a halt after running over a street sign, which became lodged underneath the vehicle. Footage from a police helicopter captured the moment the man exited the van through a window and attempted to flee on foot, only to be struck by an unmarked police car.
He was apprehended at the scene and taken to hospital under police guard, where he is currently receiving treatment for non-life-threatening injuries. The man is set to appear at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court today to face the numerous charges against him.