Detectives from Taskforce Hawk have today charged a man as part of an investigation into an alleged road rage assault in Essendon earlier this year.
Police were told a 37-year-old Maribyrnong man was driving through the carpark of a school about 11.15am on 6 September when he passed a 50-year-old Craigieburn man who was standing with a woman and child.
After parking his vehicle, the driver was confronted by the Craigieburn man and a physical altercation took place.
The victim sustained minor facial injuries as a result of the alleged assault.
The incident was subsequently reported to police, who were able to identify the second man involved.
The Craigieburn man was interviewed by Taskforce Hawk detectives today and charged with recklessly cause injury and common law assault.
He was bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates' Court on 26 June, 2026.
Investigators do not believe the parties were known to each other.
Detectives are also appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the incident, and who may have dash-cam or mobile phone footage, to come forward and speak to police.
Operation Hawk was established in July 2024 to specifically target criminal behaviour linked to the construction industry and transitioned to Taskforce Hawk in June 2025.
This was in response to a number of fresh allegations of serious and violent criminal behaviour.
Taskforce Hawk is focused on assessing new intelligence and evidence relating to allegations of criminal behaviour linked to the construction industry.
It also continues to proactively target organised crime associated with the sector, including a focus on any individuals employed within the construction industry who have known links to outlaw motorcycle gangs.
Police are also instigating approaches with relevant industry stakeholders to gather intelligence, as well as working closely with a range of law enforcement partners, regulators and government authorities.
Anyone with information about these incidents is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit an online confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
