Jason Benjamin Hardie, 36, from Loganlea in Beenleigh Court for alleged arson, car fire

A Logan man who allegedly set a car on fire and fled the scene, crashing into neighbours, faced court as he pleaded it was a case of mistaken identity.

Jason Benjamin Hardie, 36, allegedly set a car on fire in Beenleigh and fled the scene

A Logan man who allegedly set a car on fire and fled the scene, crashing into neighbours, faced court as he pleaded it was a case of mistaken identity.

Jason Benjamin Hardie, 36, faced Beenleigh Magistrates Court on Tuesday, October 4 charged with two counts of arson of a vehicle.

The court heard that on January 20 at a townhouse complex in Beenleigh, a car was set on fire.

Witnesses reported seeing a man and a woman fleeing the scene in a silver SUV which then crashed into neighbouring cars during the escape.

Senior police prosecutor Tim Wise said the silver SUV was later found at Mr Hardie’s home in Loganlea, allegedly tying him to the arson.

“A man who fits Hardie’s description was seen on the couch at this address, shortly after the arson,” he said.

“There is enough evidence linking Mr Hardie to the crime for a jury to make a decision.”

Defence lawyer Thomas Allen said there was a case of mistaken identity.

“One of the witnesses describes him as having surfy, blonde hair where he is actually bald with distinguishable tattoos,” he said.

“There is no evidence linking him to the crime, courts rely on evidence not proposition or speculation.”

Magistrate Mark Howden said it will be a matter for the jury and committed Mr Hardie for trial in the district court.

“There is a case that can be drawn and it is possible he could be found guilty,” said Magistrate Howden.

Mr Hardie was granted bail because he would not get a trial date for a lengthy time, he had already served 256 days of pre-sentence custody.

He must not contact any witnesses and must live in Rockhampton.