Police officer saves drowning alleged domestic violence offender during East Point pursuit

An NT Police officer risked his own life to save an alleged DV offender, who tried to evade police by swimming into the ocean before almost drowning. Read the latest.

NT Police. Picture: Gera Kazakov

Welcome to the NT News’ weekly Top End rolling police, crime, traffic, fire and breaking news blog. Keep up with the latest in the Top End – from Katherine to Darwin, West Daly, Arnhem Land and the Tiwi Islands.

December 6, 12pm: An NT Police officer risked his life to save a man – who allegedly assaulted his partner – from drowning after a failed attempt to evade cops.

Police allege the 41-year-old man had assaulted his partner at the entrance of the East Point Reserve about 5.30pm on Thursday.

Darwin general duties officers found the alleged victim with non-life threatening injuries as a result of the assault.

The alleged offender is said to have swum out into the ocean to evade police capture, but began to drown.

A nearby officer removed his gear so he could swim out and save the alleged offender from drowning.

The officer received minor injuries to his feet.

The alleged victim and offender were taken to Royal Darwin Hospital for assessment.

The man remains under police guard and is expected to be charged.

Commander Daniel Bacon said the officer’s quick thinking was commendable.

“I commend the brave and quick thinking actions of the officer who, without hesitating, risked his own life to save another,” he said.

“If you or anyone you know is experiencing domestic or family violence, please reach out on 131 444 or in an emergency call triple-0.

“You can also anonymously report through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.”

Alleged assault at fast food restaurant

December 6, 12pm: NT Police are calling for information after a man allegedly assaulted a woman at a fast food restaurant in Casuarina earlier this week.

Police allege a man assaulted a woman at a drive-through of a fast food restaurant on Bradshaw Terrace before fleeing the scene about 9.15pm on Monday.

Police have started investigations and a 22-year-old man was arrested on Thursday.

Detectives from Strike Force Lyra urge anyone with information or dashcam footage to make contact on 131 444. Please quote reference number NTP2400122428.

Stolen vehicle found dumped at Marlow Lagoon

December 2, 6:30am: A stolen vehicle was recovered overnight west of Palmerston.

Northern Watch Commander Steven Langdon said the vehicle was located in Marlow Lagoon.

The vehicle, a Toyota LandCruiser Troop Carrier, was impounded for forensic testing to determine the last driver.

“The vehicle will be tested throughout the day,” Mr Langdon said.

“Any information will lead to a progression in our investigation.”

Man killed, 10-year-old hospitalised after Wadeye crash

Police Station in Wadeye. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

December 1, 2024: Northern Territory police are investigating a fatal crash in Wadeye on Saturday afternoon.

Police said that around 5.45pm they received a report of a single vehicle crash about 5km south of Wadeye at a spot known as Airforce Crossing.

Wadeye police members and local clinic staff attended the scene and a 28-year-old male was pronounced dead.

Two other adult occupants of the vehicle were conveyed to the community clinic for assessment and a 10-year-old youth was flown to Royal Darwin Hospital with minor injuries.

The section of road was gravel, with one town-resident saying there was speculation the driver hit a pothole.

A crime scene was established and the major crash investigation unit are investigating. The NT’s road toll is now 58, compared to 28 at the same time in 2023.