Car stolen and recklessly driven through the west

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A Deer Parlk man has been charged after a stolen car was driven recklessly in Melbourne’s north-west.

Police sighted a silver Hyundai i30 bearing stolen number plates on Point Cook Road, Point Cook, about 9.30pm on Monday, July 22.

Officers were preparing to intercept the vehicle when it took off at a fast rate of speed.

The Air Wing followed the Hyundai as it drove recklessly at speeds up to 160 km/h through Point Cook, Laverton North and Deer Park.

Stop sticks were successfully deployed at the intersection of Billingham and Station roads, Deer Park and again at Furlong Road and Persini Crescent, St Albans.

The vehicle, which had initially been stolen from Reservoir between July 15 and 16, continued on a short way but was dumped in the vicinity of Millbank Drive, Deer Park.

Canine units were called in to search for two occupants of the vehicle that had fled on foot.

A 28-year-old Deer Park man was found attempting to hide in a nearby creek.

The 28-year-old has subsequently been charged with 13 offences including reckless conduct endangering serious injury, dangerous driving whilst being pursued by police, theft of motor vehicle and a range of other theft and traffic-related offences.

He has been bailed to face Sunshine Magistrates’ Court on August 16.

Inquiries to locate the second occupant of the vehicle remain ongoing.

Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au