September 11, 2025

Carter Capner Law monitors accidents involving cars, motorcycles, trucks, busses, cyclists and trams throughout Australia to spotlight safety issues of concern to our clients and to demonstrate those situations in which they may have a right to an insurance or compensation recovery. We act for drivers, riders, passengers, pedestrians. Call today on 1300 529 529 or click here to reach Carter Capner Law. Click on Client Showcase to view our history of road accident compensation claims.

Case Overview
A chaotic police pursuit of a stolen truck caused traffic disruption along the Bruce Highway on Tuesday, September 9, 2025. The incident began when police were alerted around 10:15 am to a truck stolen from Elizabeth Street in Brisbane City. The vehicle was tracked travelling north on the Bruce Highway, swerving dangerously, trailing sparks, and reportedly causing spot fires along the highway verge. The pursuit continued for nearly three hours before ending near Tiaro, south of Maryborough, at around 2:00 pm, when police arrested the alleged driver.

“The stolen truck was seen swerving dangerously and trailing sparks before grass fires were spotted along the highway verge.” — Queensland Police Service

Court Details

  • Hearing Date: Thursday, 11 September 2025
  • Court: Hervey Bay Magistrates Court
  • Defendant: 39-year-old man from Fortitude Valley
  • Status: Arrested and charged, in custody awaiting first appearance

Charges

  • Two counts of unlawful use of a motor vehicle
  • Dangerous driving
  • Driving under the influence of liquor or a drug
  • Evading police
  • Driving whilst suspended

Background to Offence

  • The truck was reported stolen from Brisbane City at around 10:15 am on September 9, 2025.
  • The vehicle was driven erratically northbound on the Bruce Highway, with its doors open, weaving across lanes, and sparking along the road surface.
  • Spot fires were later reported near the Sunshine Coast, believed to have been ignited during the pursuit.
  • The chase concluded near Tiaro, where police successfully stopped the truck and arrested the driver.

Community Impact
The pursuit caused widespread traffic disruption along the Bruce Highway, one of Queensland’s busiest arterial routes, and created safety risks for other motorists. The fires along the highway verge also required attention from emergency services. Police emphasised the dangers of reckless driving in stolen vehicles and urged motorists with dashcam footage to assist with the investigation.

Next Steps
The accused is scheduled to appear before the Hervey Bay Magistrates Court on Thursday, September 11, 2025, facing multiple serious driving and theft-related charges.