Elleny Jade Matthews charged with dangerous operations of a vehicle, drug possession, obstructing police

Police claim a driver put the safety of Sunshine Coast Marathon runners in jeopardy when she drove on the course. Watch the video.

Footage has emerged of the moment Sunshine Coast Marathon runners were shocked at the sight of a Maroochydore woman allegedly driving on the course after failing to stop for police.

In a video obtained by the Sunshine Coast Daily, a car is seen driving along the route.

Elleny Jade Matthews is alleged by police to be the driver of the white vehicle driving along Cotton Tree Esplanade about 8.15am on August 14, 2022 which was closed during the premiere running event.

It’s alleged by police the Maroochydore woman sped off when she was directed to stop, narrowly missing marathon runners close by.

“Did you see that,” marathon runner Natalie Debono said in the video as Ms Matthews allegedly drove off along Cotton Tree Esplanade.

Car horns can be heard echoing in the distance as Ms Matthews allegedly drives out of frame.

Police allege her car ran over traffic cones and also struck a gutter before she drove north onto Duporth Ave and left the scene.

She was later charged on August 16, 2022, with one count each of dangerous operation of a vehicle, failure to comply with requirement to stop vehicle, driving unlicensed, burglary, possess dangerous drug, possess utensils, possess a knife in a public place, stealing and obstruct police.

When her matter was briefly mentioned in Maroochydore Magistrates Court on August 17, 2022, solicitor Rod Morgan said Ms Matthews would not be applying for bail.

Ms Matthews did not appear before the court and remains in custody.

The matter was adjourned to September 6, 2022 when Ms Matthews is expected to enter a plea.