A teenage boy is facing serious charges after allegedly stealing a car from a gym, before setting a factory on fire and causing over one million dollars in damage in Melbourne's southeast.
The arrest comes as police remind gym-goers to keep car keys close or use secure lockers when working out, to best safeguard your property.
It will be alleged the keys to a Ford Raptor were stolen from a gym on Highbury Road, Burwood on 9 June, before the vehicle was driven to a factory on Brett Drive in Carrum Downs in the early hours of the following morning.
It's believed a group of four attended the location, where three people allegedly forced entry into the business and set fire to the factory before fleeing in the ute.
While no one was inside at the time and there were no reports of injury, the damage bill for the largely destroyed factory and several vehicles inside is estimated to exceed $1mil.
Following enquiries, detectives from the Southern Metro Region Crime Squad arrested a 15-year-old boy from the Melbourne area at a home in Ferntree Gully on Friday 3 July.
He was charged aggravated burglary, theft of motor vehicle, and arson. He appeared in a children's court last week, where he was remanded to reappear at a later date.
The Ford Raptor was recovered and following forensic analysis will be returned to its owner.
Victoria Police is reminding gym-goers to use secure lockers or keep valuables with them while working out to deter opportunistic thieves. More tips can be found here: www.police.vic.gov.au/property-theft-gyms.
As investigations continue to locate more people involved, police urge anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
