A quiet afternoon in a Western Sydney suburb turned to chaos when a four-year-old girl was struck by a motorbike during a police operation. The toddler was walking with her family on the footpath when the incident unfolded.
Chaos on Popondetta Road
The incident occurred around 1:30 pm on Friday on Popondetta Rd in Dharruk. Police officers were attempting to approach a young person riding a motorbike. According to witnesses, two officers exited their vehicle and ordered the rider to stop near where the young girl was walking with her parents and another child in a pram.
Instead of complying, the rider allegedly "accelerated harshly" and veered onto the footpath, directly into the path of the four-year-old. The collision left the girl with a head laceration, sending shockwaves through the local community.
Emergency Response and Aftermath
Paramedics treated the girl at the scene for her injuries. A CareFlight helicopter was initially tasked by NSW Ambulance, but the child was ultimately transported by road to The Children's Hospital at Westmead. Authorities confirmed she was in a stable condition at the time of her transfer.
In the wake of the collision, the police riot squad and additional units were called to assist. A swift search of the area led officers to an abandoned motorbike in a reserve behind Woodstock Ave, located approximately a five-minute ride from the scene of the crash.
Arrest Made Following Investigation
The police investigation progressed quickly, resulting in a significant development. A young person was arrested at a nearby home shortly after the incident and is currently assisting police with their enquiries as the investigation continues.
