Police continue to appeal for witnesses after officers fired a shot at a vehicle in Dandenong last night (6 June), Victoria Police say.
The incident follows a theft at a liquor store in Dandenong North yesterday afternoon involving two men and a woman.
Investigators have been told the trio entered the Dunearn Road store just after 4.30pm and stole liquor.
Shortly later, the offenders attempted to re-enter the store brandishing a knife and hammer, however the store keeper locked the door, preventing them entering.
An altercation ensued with the offenders and store keeper during which the store window was damaged.
The offenders then fled in a stolen Nissan Pulsar after assaulting a neighbouring shop keeper.
Police sighted the sedan about 7.15pm parked in a service lane on the Princes Highway, Dandenong, just south of David Street.
Officers approached the vehicle before the driver reversed and collided into two parked vehicles and accelerated towards police.
The officer fired one shot at the vehicle before the driver fled onto Gwenda Street.
Shortly later, the unoccupied Nissan was found dumped in Gwenda Street.
It’s believed the Nissan was stolen from Clow Street, Dandenong, sometime between 5 and 6 June.
An 18-year old man was arrested at Dandenong Railway Station about 8.30pm in relation to the theft and assault.
The Heatherton man was charged with theft of motor vehicle and theft.
He was bailed to appear at the Dandenong Magistrates’ court on 1 August.
Professional Standards Command will oversee the investigation as per standard protocol when a firearm has been discharged by a member.
No police members were injured during the incident and Greater Dandenong Crime Investigation Unit detectives continue to search for the man and woman.
Detectives appeal for anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers.
