A dramatic police pursuit through Canberra's southern suburbs ended with the arrest of an alleged dangerous driver, who was found by police dogs hiding under a wooden deck in a backyard.
High-speed pursuit through suburban streets
The incident began on Sunday, January 11, 2026, when ACT Policing received a report about a stolen white Toyota LandCruiser taken from Deakin Oval. Officers located the vehicle at a residence in Conder a short time later. They observed a man entering the LandCruiser before he drove away.
Police quickly deployed tyre-deflation devices, which successfully damaged and deflated the vehicle's front and rear right tyres. Despite this, the driver allegedly failed to stop. Authorities attempted to intercept the LandCruiser on Box Hill Avenue after it was reportedly seen travelling at 150km/h in a 60km/h zone, narrowly avoiding collisions with several vehicles and pedestrians.
Footpath and sports field danger
The pursuit turned even more dangerous as the driver, in a bid to escape, allegedly drove along footpaths and across a sports field. This reckless action forced members of the public to run for their safety. Police continued the chase through the suburb of Gordon before temporarily losing sight of the vehicle.
The incident concluded when the LandCruiser crashed into a parked car in Isabella Plains before finally coming to a stop in Calwell. The driver then allegedly fled the scene on foot, running into the backyard of a nearby home.
Canine unit makes the find
It was here that a police canine team proved instrumental. The dogs discovered the 31-year-old man concealed underneath a wooden deck, leading to his immediate arrest. A search of a black bag in his possession revealed suspected methamphetamine and stolen bank cards.
The man faced the ACT Magistrates Court on Monday, January 12, 2026, after being taken into custody the previous day. He is confronting a series of serious charges, including:
- Failing to stop a motor vehicle for police
- Aggravated dangerous driving
- Driving a motor vehicle without consent
- Unlawful possession of stolen property
- Driving while disqualified
The accused is scheduled to reappear in court at a later date.
Police appeal for witnesses
In the aftermath, ACT Policing has issued a public appeal for information. They are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or who may have dashcam footage of the vehicle or the pursuit to come forward.
"Anyone who can assist police should provide their contact details to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or via the Crime Stoppers ACT website," a police statement read. "Please quote reference number 8272018. Information can be provided anonymously."
