Coasties experienced an unexpected disruption on the northern motorway yesterday afternoon as Police arrested a man following an alleged car theft and multi-vehicle crash near Dairy Flat.

At approximately 2:40 pm, Police responded to reports on Walmer Road, Point Chevalier, where a man allegedly attempted to steal a vehicle from an elderly woman.

After the initial attempt, he reportedly succeeded in stealing a car from a second person nearby.

With assistance from the Air Support Unit and traffic cameras, Police tracked the stolen vehicle north. However, due to safety concerns, officers opted against pursuing the vehicle, explained Inspector Daniel Meade.

Instead, officers deployed road spikes in an attempt to slow the suspect, but the driver evaded them and continued driving.

The incident came to a dramatic conclusion around 3 pm, when the stolen vehicle was involved in a multi-vehicle crash that caused it to roll over.

“The driver came to a stop following a multi-vehicle crash where the vehicle has rolled,” stated Inspector Meade.

Two people, including the suspect, sustained moderate injuries, but no serious harm was reported.

During his flight, the suspect allegedly caused damage to multiple vehicles and struck a motorcyclist.

“While the offender was travelling along the northern motorway, he has allegedly damaged a number of vehicles and knocked a motorcyclist off their bike,” Inspector Meade confirmed.

Following the crash, the Serious Crash Unit arrived on the scene to investigate, with officials announcing that the road would reopen shortly thereafter.

The 34-year-old man now faces possible charges as enquiries into the incident continue.

Police confirmed that the case would be referred to the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) for further review.