Armed Crime Squad detectives have charged a 37-year-old man after it's alleged a car crashed into a school bus whilst attempting to evade police, then drove at officers in Newtown on Thursday.
Police spotted the Kia Optima, allegedly stolen from NSW, near the intersection of Princes Highway and Roebuck Street about 3.40pm.
With Air Wing monitoring above, police units on the ground attempted to intercept the vehicle.
The Kia allegedly attempted to flee the scene and reversed into a school bus.
The occupants on the bus were not injured.
It is alleged the Kia then drove at police, where one officer discharged their firearm.
The Kia collided with another car before the two occupants fled on foot and were arrested nearby.
The female driver of the civilian vehicle was taken to hospital with minor injuries.
Last night detectives charged the male driver, of no fixed address, with:
- aggravated intentional exposure to emergency worker to risk by driving
- 2 x conduct endangering serious injury
- drive manner dangerous
- criminal damage
- theft of motor vehicle
- bring stolen goods into Victoria
He was remanded in custody to appear at Geelong Magistrates' Court on Monday.
Yesterday detectives also charged the passenger, a 43-year-old NSW woman, with handle stolen goods.
She was bailed to appear at Geelong Magistrates' Court on 31 March.
The investigation remains ongoing with Professional Standards Command oversight, as is standard practice when a police firearm is discharged.
Detectives are continuing to appeal for anyone who witnessed the incidents, or anyone with dashcam, CCTV or mobile phone footage, to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
