Geelong rock throw attack video released as Victoria Police seek offenders
The suspects behind another scary Geelong rock throwing incident have been captured on camera.
Geelong
Don't miss out on the headlines from Geelong. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Drivers have been left “shaken” after rocks were thrown at more cars last week following a spate of similar incidents in Geelong’s north.
Police say rocks were thrown at cars on July 11, 13 and 16. It comes as four separate incidents were reported in June.
Victoria Police confirmed six of the incidents occurred at the Creamery Rd overpass in Bell Post Hill where the offenders targeted victims heading inbound on the Geelong Ring Rd.
The latest incident took place on Anakie Road, at the Norlane exit — the next overpass north of the trouble spot.
They all took place between June 22 and July 16.
Geelong Criminal Investigation Unit Senior Sergeant Mark Guthrie said police were investigating if the incidents were connected.
“We had increased patrols but since the incidents are so random when it occurs, it has been difficult to detect,” he said.
Sgt Guthrie believes those responsible may have moved to a different overpass to avoid detection, but warned police were expanding patrols.
“I know someone will be bragging about it somewhere, so come forward and give us that information,” he said.
Sgt Guthrie said there was no clear pattern apart from the incidents all taking place under the cover of darkness.
But there are now concerns the incidents are getting more dangerous with a rock smashing the windscreen of a car and narrowly missing the driver during the sixth incident.
“The speed the car is travelling at and where the object hits the windscreen plays a part, but they are all bad and there is the potential for serious injuries and death,” he said.
“That is why we need to put a stop to it and ask people to come forward.
“No one has been psychically hurt, but no doubt there is mental scars … a lot of them (victims) were very shaken.”
With the incidents occurring more frequently, Sgt Guthrie urged motorists on the Geelong Ring Road to take care.
“If you are unlucky to be a victim to this, don’t stop on the highway, because that is dangerous, unless you can’t see out of windscreen,” he said.
“If you can, drive to an area that is well lit and contact police straight away.”
Earlier this month, the Department of Transport’s regional director Michael Tudball was unable to comment on whether additional lighting or barriers should be installed to prevent further incidents from occurring, despite his concerns.
“This behaviour is unacceptable and irresponsible, and it endangers the lives of motorists and their passengers travelling along the Geelong Ring Road,” he said.
“We will work with authorities, including Victoria Police, to determine if we can provide assistance in relation to these reports.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
More Coverage
Originally published as Geelong rock throw attack video released as Victoria Police seek offenders