A driver who crashed a rare classic car worth $250,000 allegedly tried to bite brave witnesses while they were making a citizen’s arrest after he fled the scene.
The driver was allegedly driving around Carrum Downs, in Melbourne’s south, in a rare 1969 Ford Falcon GT before crashing on McCormick’s Road about 8.30pm on November 5.
CCTV footage showed the driver lost control of the vintage car shortly before crashing into a tree.
Despite the serious damage suffered by the car, which had been painstakingly restored by its previous owner, the driver attempted to flee several times.
Nearby neighbors who heard the crash, which they described as “the worst noise you’ve ever heard,” intervened by removing the keys from the car’s ignition.
“I took them off and then he couldn’t walk,” said one 7news.
Once he realized the car was not moving, the driver jumped out of the window, abandoning his passengers, and allegedly ran down the street.
Witnesses sprang into action and restrained the man, who allegedly tried to bite them.
A Melbourne driver has given up a rare 1969 Ford Falcon GT (pictured), which he bought five months ago for $250,000.
Neighbors made a citizen’s arrest after the driver (pictured with two officers) allegedly attempted to flee the scene.
“I tackled him with the help of one of the neighbors,” said a young woman, adding that it looked like the man had been celebrating the Melbourne Cup.
Emergency crews worked to free two passengers from the crashed Ford and both were taken to the hospital with minor injuries.
“I think the guys in the back seat were pretty shaken,” said the neighbor, who took the driver’s keys.
This rare classic car was written off just five months after the driver bought it.
Its previous owner, Reno Natale, said he was “crying” after seeing the vehicle he spent years restoring damaged beyond repair.
The driver was taken to the hospital with minor injuries.
Anyone with relevant information or images of the crash is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.