A teenager has been charged with arson after allegedly setting a car on fire at a “hoon event” in Crestmead.
The teen, a 17-year-old boy from Marsden, was one of hundreds across the region who were last month either charged or slapped with infringements at weekend hooning events, according to police.
A total of 405 traffic infringements were issued over four weekends after police say they targeted hoons as part of Operation X-ray Antler.
The operation involved the deployment of unmarked police motorbikes patrolling known hooning hotspots.
“Our message to anyone taking part in high-risk activities on our roads is that we will continue to target and investigate dangerous acts and take action against drivers,” police said in a statement.
On the first night of the operation, at about 12.05am on 5 October, officers were called to Magnesium Drive, Crestmead to reports of a hoon event and a number of people “smashing a Ford Falcon”.
“It will be alleged a 17-year-old Marsden man had poured a flammable liquid onto the Falcon before setting it on fire and fleeing in a Ford Fiesta,” police said.
“The 17-year-old was charged with one count of arson and was dealt with under the provisions of the Youth Justice Act.”
All up, the operation saw two cars impounded, and 10 drink driving charges, 12 drug driving charges, 16 evading police charges, and eight hooning charges issued.
Police deemed the operation a success, which they credited to “having dedicated officers to respond to jobs quickly”.
Senior Sergeant Matt Rowe said police were continuing to evolve and adapt, using the latest technologies and strategies.
“Throughout the operation we were able to trial and implement new investigative strategies, using technology which will be used going forward,” he said.
“If we can try and reduce the number of spectators at a hooning event, hopefully we can reduce the number of events.”
At the 40 second mark in the below video, footage shows the moment a car is set alight at Crestmead.
The first clip in the video shows the moment a motorist is allegedly caught driving 178km/h in a 100km zone on the Ipswich Motorway.
Motorists are urged to drive safely, follow the rules and be aware of the “fatal five” which include fatigue, speeding, drinking and drug driving, distraction, and seatbelt use.
“The Fatal Five, and associated traffic and criminal offences, are all avoidable and can be prevented if you choose to,” North Brisbane Inspector Matt Blunn said.
“Though enforcement, education and engagement will continue to be the highest priority for us as police, road safety remains a responsibility that we share with the community.
“Your life, and the life of your passengers and other road users, are in your hands.
“Please drive or ride with that weighty responsibility in mind and make the right choices to ensure you do all you can to prevent road trauma.
Investigations are ongoing.
