Man to face court charged with threat to kill, assault offences

A 32-year-old Charnwood man will face the ACT Magistrates Court today (Wednesday, 15 May 2024) after allegedly assaulting two people in unprovoked attacks and evading police on several occasions. 

About 12.30pm yesterday (Tuesday, 14 May 2024), the man allegedly drove a white Suzuki Swift to a caravan park in Symonston. While there, he allegedly assaulted and threatened to kill another man before departing in the Suzuki Swift. 

A short time later, about 12.55pm, police responded to reports of a disturbance at the Pine Island Reserve, where it is alleged the man had assaulted another man after ramming his motorcycle with the Swift.  

Police attended the location about 1pm, and immediately directed the man to stop, which he failed to do. Due to concerns the driver and vehicle posed to the community, a pursuit was initiated, which travelled through Bonython, where the man is alleged to have driven at approximately 100km/h in a signposted 60km/h zone.  

The pursuit was terminated a short time later while the man was allegedly travelling at excessive speeds northbound on the Monaro Highway.  

Police continued to observe and monitor the vehicle until it came to a halt in Latham, at which point police arrested the man.  

He has been charged with eight offences – two counts of assault, two counts of fail to stop for police, two counts of reckless driving, and single counts of reckless threat to kill, and dangerous driving.  

Police would like to speak to anyone who saw, or may have interacted with, or who may have dash-cam footage of the vehicle being driven in and around the ACT yesterday. Anyone with information that could assist police is urged to contact Crime Stoppers Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or via the Crime Stoppers ACT website. Please quote 7748565. Information can be provided anonymously. 

MEDIA ENQUIRIES  

POLICE MEDIA — (02) 5126 9070,  act-police-media@afp.gov.au