Melbourne Marathon: Teen charged after stolen car hits pedestrian

A 16-year-old boy has been charged with multiple offences after allegedly driving a stolen Ford Escape through the Melbourne CBD near the Melbourne Marathon route. The incident occurred on Sunday morning near the intersection of Flinders and Elizabeth streets, where the vehicle struck a 57-year-old woman. Bystanders reportedly had to drag the injured woman from the road to prevent further impact as the driver performed a U-turn and continued driving erratically, striking several parked cars and street signs.

Police were forced to draw their firearms during the pursuit. The teenager was later arrested at Albert Park. Authorities confirmed the incident was not an act of terrorism or a targeted attack. The suspect faces charges including reckless conduct endangering serious injury, failing to render assistance, and driving in a dangerous manner.

Separately, runners at the event reported safety concerns regarding course vehicles. One witness, Dr. Nathan Freeman, reported that a female runner was struck by a pacer car for the men’s half-marathon, resulting in a major injury requiring surgery. Freeman also noted that a passing motorcycle clipped him while he was attempting to assist the injured runner.