Arrests after two men and boy pulled from fiery crash in Cranebrook

Two men have been arrested for hindering police following a serious crash in Sydney’s west. The car burst into flames after hitting a tree with the men and a 12-year-old boy inside.

A 12-year-old boy was left screaming for help after his mates took off and left him behind following a serious crash in a stolen car.

The boy was heard screaming “don’t leave me, help me,” just minutes before the car burst into flames in Cranebrook overnight.

Neighbours heard the screeching of tyres and three huge bangs before the car crashed on Pendock Street just after 7.30pm on Thursday night.

Residents sprung to action to save the boy, after three other people took off and left him behind in the smoking wreckage.

“What kind of mates do that, leave a kid behind?” Cranebrook resident Cheryl Dodds said.

Onlookers found the car ablaze after crashing into a tree. Picture: Supplied

“He was screaming for help saying he was injured and they left him.”

Within minutes of the crash, two men arrived at the fiery scene and placed a third occupant into a shopping trolley before leaving the scene.

Fire and Rescue crews extinguished the burning car. Picture: TNV

A short time later, NSW Ambulance paramedics were called to a home on Rosannah Way, Cranebrook, where a man could be heard yelling in distress from within the premises.

When paramedics were refused entry into the home, police were called. They were also refused entry.

Amid concerns for the man’s welfare, officers from the Public Order Riot Squad forced entry into the home.

Once inside, police allege, two men – aged 40 and 55 – hindered police, who then used capsicum spray. A Taser was also deployed on an aggressive dog.

Two men have been arrested for hindering police following a serious crash in Sydney. Picture: TNV

They were charged with hinder or resist police officer in the execution of duty. Picture: TNV

Officers located an 18-year-old man – who is yet to be formally identified — inside the house. He was treated by paramedics for a broken leg and head lacerations, and was taken to Westmead Hospital.

He has also undergone mandatory testing.

The 40 and 55-year-old men were arrested and taken to Mt Druitt Police Station and charged with hinder or resist police officer in the execution of duty.

Police at the crash scene last night. Picture: TNV

The 12-year-old sustained a broken leg and hip injuries. Picture: TNV

The 12-year-old boy was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics. Picture: TNV

The scene in Cranebrook on Friday. Picture: Julian Andrews

They have been granted conditional bail to appear at Penrith Local Court.

The older man is due to appear on September 14, 2023. The younger man is due to appear on September 21, 2023.

Inquiries have revealed the vehicle involved in the fiery crash was stolen from a home at a Cranebrook address during a break and enter about 3.45am on August 30. The residents of the home were asleep at the time and not disturbed.

Both the 12-year-old boy and the other man are in a serious but stable conditions in hospital.

Anyone with information about the crash – or has any dashcam or mobile phone footage – is urged to contact Penrith Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.