Emergency services rushed to a major incident in Perth's south-eastern suburbs on Wednesday afternoon after a car erupted in flames on a busy arterial road.
Vehicle Engulfed on Railway Avenue
The serious incident unfolded around 3pm on 14 January 2026 along a bustling stretch of Railway Avenue in Kelmscott. Initial reports indicate the vehicle caught fire following a crash. It is understood the incident may be linked to police activity prior to the collision, though authorities have not confirmed if a pursuit was active at the time of the crash.
Firefighters and paramedics from St John WA were quickly dispatched to the scene. Their priority was treating a male occupant of the vehicle, reported to be a man in his 30s.
Serious Injuries and Hospital Transfer
The man sustained significant injuries in the blaze. St John WA confirmed he suffered serious burns to his body. After receiving urgent treatment at the location, paramedics transported him to Fiona Stanley Hospital for further emergency care.
Police cordoned off the area to allow for a thorough examination of the scene. Forensic officers were photographed inspecting the charred remains of the vehicle as part of their investigation into the cause of the fire and the circumstances leading up to it.
Police Union Declares Critical Incident
The WA Police Union (WAPU) has classified the event as a "critical incident" within the Armadale District. In a statement posted on social media, the union confirmed it is providing support to the police members involved.
"WAPU is assisting the involved members in a critical incident," the statement read. "A WAPU Director and/or Field Officer is responding, and the involved are receiving full legal and welfare support throughout the process."
The declaration of a critical incident typically triggers a standard internal investigation to review the actions taken by officers. WA Police have launched a full investigation into the entire event, which will examine the sequence of events that led to the car catching fire.
Authorities are urging any witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage of the incident on Railway Avenue to contact Crime Stoppers.
