Motor Left Running

By Des Dugan

Service station staff have confirmed the truck which was allegedly stolen from Murrurundi’s BP Service Station at approximately 7:30am had been left running and with the keys in the ignition while the driver went to pay for the fuel.

The truck was allegedly stolen by 29 year old Rodney Johnson, who was charged yesterday with stealing the truck; leading police on a pursuit, using an offensive weapon to prevent arrest, assault an officer, resisting an officer and malicious damage.

He was refused bail today in Singleton Local Court and the matter was adjourned to Newcastle on December 6.

Investigations are being conducted internally by police into the incident, which will include how police managed hte incident and the use of spikes at the Singleton rail underpass.

After hitting the spikes the vehicle drove another two kilometres before crashing into a heritage building diagonally opposite Burdekin Park.

Police had previously decided not to pursue the vehicle but observe the driver’s behaviour.

Related stories:

• The Damage Done;
• No Remorse for Victims;
• Johnson Adjourned to Newcastle;
• Highway Open – Driver in Court Today’
• Police Chase Update;
• Patient Update: Police Chase;
• Police Chase Ends;
• 11/10/2017: Breaking: Police have confirmed a truck was stolen in Murrurundi this morning, there was a pursuit south of Aberdeen, the truck is headed towards Muswellbrook. The New England highway is closed in both directions at Bridgeman Road Singleton. We have had reports of a road block at the Maison Dieu turn off. There are more reports of a loud bang and smoke at that location. More information to come.