General News
24 November, 2024
Driver decamps after creek fire
Mystery currently surrounds the identity of a driver who drove a vehicle through the Yarriambiack Creek, allegedly directly at a camper on the Kindergarten side of the creek, on Monday night.
The vehicle became hopelessly bogged in Cumbungi and mud in the bottom of the creek during the attempt to drive through.
Then in an apparent attempt to drive the vehicle out, a fire started in the surrounding grass and reeds, possibly caused by the hot exhaust pipe.
Soon afterwards witnesses saw a male running from the scene into nearby scrub, as they called the fire brigade, with police also attending.
Two units from the Warracknabeal Fire Brigade were called at 8.39pm and quickly extinguished the fire before it spread further along the creek and into the timber.
It was noted that when fire brigade members raised the bonnet of the vehicle to isolate the battery, the battery had been removed from the vehicle and it couldn’t be found nearby.
Beulah Police Leading Snr Constable Shayne Riggall said the 2011 Great Wall SUV was unregistered, “but not reported stolen at this stage”.
“The alleged driver 'decamped' westward into nearby bush and hasn’t, at this stage, been identified.”
“We currently have several suspects we are following up inquiries with. The vehicle was seized early the following morning by police and it has been taken away for forensic examination,” he said.
“To assist with our inquiries we would appreciate any information regarding the matter from the public, who witnessed the incident or may have any other information that would help us with our inquiries,” L Snr. Constable Riggall said.
This information may be left with police at the Beulah or Warracknabeal Police Station or may be left anonymously at Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.