Melbourne man armed with axe destroys 20 cars, causes $100k in damages

Jet Sanchez
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Video / 7NEWS Australia YouTube channel

A bizarre and alarming incident has seen an unidentified individual wreak havoc on three separate car dealerships in Glen Waverley, a southeastern suburb of Melbourne. Armed with an axe, the assailant targeted vehicles with a vengeance, leaving a trail of destruction in his wake.

Motive remains a mystery

Melbourne man with axe damages car

The man strategically chose his targets, singling out a Mazda dealership on Springvale Road first, followed by a BMW dealer and then concluding his spree with additional damage to trucks at a nearby Toyota dealer. This selection process has left both employees and authorities perplexed, as nearby dealerships were left untouched.

Employees interviewed on Australian TV expressed confusion, unable to discern any motive behind the targeted vandalism. The assailant's focus on Mazda, BMW, and Toyota remains a mystery.

Escape on foot: police appeals for information

CCTV footage captured the suspect in action, driving an old Toyota Avalon. However, the police report indicates that the assailant fled the scene on foot, leaving behind a scene of destruction. Described as approximately 175cm tall, with curly black hair, the man was wearing a distinctive tan hoodie, matching pants, and slides.

The Victoria Police and the Monash Crime Investigation Unit have issued an open call to the public for any additional information, CCTV footage, or dashcam recordings that could aid in identifying the suspect. The urgency to bring the individual to justice is highlighted by the estimated AU$100,000 (about NZ $108,000) worth of damages caused during the spree.

This unprecedented act of vandalism has raised concerns in the local community, emphasising the need for swift action to ensure the safety and security of automotive establishments in the area. The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to unravel the mystery behind this audacious and targeted attack.