Former police commissioner’s car used in police chase – report

Photo Credit: 9 News

A 16-year-old teenager has been arrested and charged with multiple offences after engaging in a police pursuit while recklessly driving in Perth on 22 March 2024.

According to 9News, the Mitsubishi Pajero used by the offender reportedly belonged to former Western Australia Police Commissioner Karl O’Callaghan.

Western Australia Police say officers attempted to stop the white SUV on a stretch of road along Maylands – an inner-city suburb approximately 4.5km northeast of Perth – at approximately 10:00pm.

The driver allegedly failed to follow police directions and continued driving.

A police pursuit began but was abandoned due to the dangerous driving behaviour.

According to 9News, the vehicle was damaged when the teenager behind the wheel reportedly attempted to drive through two vehicles during the chase.

Authorities say the SUV was identified travelling along Tonkin Highway in Redcliffe later that same evening – with officers once again trying to apprehend the car.

The driver allegedly refused to stop and was observed by helicopters in Karrinyup, where the young offender was eventually caught.

Officers said the 16-year-old driver and passenger of the vehicle were arrested on the scene.

The teenager behind the wheel was charged with multiple offences relating to failure to follow police directions, reckless driving, police evasion, unlicenced driving and property damage.

The young offender is expected to appear at a local children’s court this month, while the passenger was released without any charges.