The Australian driver gets a $250,000 hit five months after purchasing his car
A driver who crashed a rare $250,000 classic car reportedly tried to bite brave witnesses as they made a citizen’s arrest after fleeing the scene.
The driver was reportedly driving through the 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 that the male driver lost control of the classic car shortly before crashing into a tree.
Despite the extensive damage to the car, which the previous owner had restored with great care, the driver tried to drive away several times.
Nearby neighbors who heard the crash, which they described as “the worst sound you’ve ever heard,” intervened by removing the keys from the car’s ignition.
“I took them out, but then he couldn’t go any further,” someone said 7News.
Once he realized the car wouldn’t move, the driver jumped out the window, abandoning his passengers, and reportedly ran into the street.
Witnesses jumped into action and restrained the man, who allegedly tried to bite them.
A Melbourne driver has written off a rare 1969 Ford Falcon GT (pictured) he bought five months ago for $250,000
Neighbors made a citizen’s arrest after the male driver (pictured with two officers) allegedly tried to run away
“I tackled him with the help of one of the neighbors,” said one young woman, adding that it appeared the man had previously celebrated the Melbourne Cup.
Emergency services freed two passengers from the crashed Ford and both were taken to hospital with minor injuries.
“I think the guys in the backseat were pretty shocked,” said the male neighbor, who took the keys from the driver.
The rare classic car was written off by the driver just five months after purchase.
The previous owner, Reno Natale, said he was “in tears” when he saw the vehicle he spent years restoring damaged beyond repair.
The driver was taken to hospital with minor injuries.
Anyone with relevant information or footage of the crash is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
