Man assaulted at gunpoint in early morning Bulleen freeway carjacking
A Mercedes driver was threatened at gunpoint and assaulted before his luxury car was stolen in a brazen daylight carjacking in Melbourne’s east.
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A young Mercedes driver held up at gunpoint and bashed on the eastern freeway was followed for 16km prior to the “horrific” carjacking.
The victim, 22, first noticed he was being followed by the white Nissan SUV as he turned onto the freeway from Ringwood.
As he approached the Bulleen Rd overpass about 2am, the SUV driver rapidly swerved in front of the victim, forcing him to a stop.
Acting Detective Sergeant Peter Dallan-Jones said two men confronted the victim and demanded he exit his 2018 Mercedes CLA200, valued at $56, 000.
The terrified victim was forced out of the car before being bashed in the face with the butt of the firearm, believed to be a long arm.
The thugs took off in his car, leaving him stranded on the freeway.
The man flagged down a passing motorist who came to his aid and called triple-000.
The victim, who lives in the CBD, was taken to hospital for treatment.
His injuries were minor but he required multiple stitches to his face.
A/Det Sgt Dallan-Jones described it as a “gutless attack”.
“This is a horrific event for the 22-year-old. He is extremely afraid. He is an innocent victim,” he said.
“It’s a gutless attack on someone minding their own business.”
Police are appealing for witnesses to the carjacking to come forward.
A/Det Sgt Dallan-Jones said there was “absolutely” a risk the duo may target another innocent motorist.
“It’s absolutely concerning,” he said.
“We want to identify these people and get them off the street.”
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They are described as Middle Eastern, in their 20s and having stocky builds.
Police are appealing for public assistance to help find the grey Mercedes Benz with registration plates AVN328.
Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.