UPDATE: A dramatic police chase through Perth’s southern suburbs culminated in a supermarket confrontation, resulting in multiple charges against a 30-year-old Armadale man. The incident unfolded just after midday on Thursday, October 12, 2023, when the suspect was spotted driving a black Audi 8K erratically on Leach Highway.
Authorities report that the man fled the scene as police attempted to pull him over in a car park on Norma Road. A spokeswoman for WA Police stated, “It will be further alleged the accused drove recklessly—mounting a footpath and driving on the wrong side of the road.” The pursuit was eventually abandoned due to community safety concerns.
However, the chase took a turn when the Police Air Wing tracked the Audi to a shopping centre on Davy Street in Booragoon. After abandoning the vehicle, the suspect allegedly dropped a duffel bag in a nearby unit complex before fleeing again.
A police search of the duffel bag revealed alarming contents: a sawn-off rifle, ammunition, a homemade Taser, and a pocket knife. Just before 4:20 PM, police located the man at a supermarket on South Street in Kardinya, where he was arrested while allegedly carrying a knife and methamphetamine. Witnesses reported chaos as officers brought him to the ground and handcuffed him in the store’s aisles.
The man faces serious charges, including:
– Carrying or possessing a prohibited weapon
– Reckless driving to escape police pursuit
– Unlawful possession of a firearm
– Possessing ammunition without authorization
– Methamphetamine possession
– Obstructing public officers
– Carrying or possessing an edged weapon
Following the arrest, he appeared in Fremantle Magistrates Court and was remanded in custody, with a follow-up appearance scheduled for Friday, October 13, 2023.
This alarming incident has raised concerns about public safety and the prevalence of weapons in the community. Residents are urged to remain vigilant as investigations continue. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
