Stolen Car Drives Through Melbourne Shopping Centre to Evade Police

Preston, Melbourne – June 18, 2025

A stolen vehicle has ploughed through the Northland Shopping Centre in a dramatic attempt to evade police in Melbourne’s north.

Emergency services rushed to the scene on Murray Road, Preston, shortly after 4:00 PM on Wednesday following reports that a white Toyota LandCruiser had driven directly through the shopping centre while trying to escape police.

According to a statement from Victoria Police, officers had attempted to intercept the vehicle in the centre’s car park when the male driver took evasive action.

“The LandCruiser, with one male occupant on board, has taken evasive action to avoid the police and driven through the middle of the shopping centre,” police said.

Miraculously, no one was struck during the incident, and there are currently no reports of physical injuries. However, one woman is being treated at the scene for shock.

The vehicle was last seen travelling towards Wood Street and remains outstanding.

Police have urged anyone with information or dashcam footage to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.