Carjack Victim Rescued After Fiery Collision on Melbourne Freeway

Emergency crews freed a driver from a mangled

Emergency crews freed a driver from a mangled vehicle early this morning following a suspected carjacking that ended in a high-speed crash on a major Melbourne thoroughfare.

The incident unfolded on the freeway when a stolen car, allegedly taken during a carjacking, was seen driving against the flow of traffic. Moments later, it slammed into a van, leaving the driver trapped in the wreckage.

Police reported that the collision occurred just before dawn, prompting a swift response from fire, ambulance, and highway patrol units. The driver of the car, whose identity has not yet been released, was extracted from the vehicle after a lengthy rescue operation.

Both drivers were transported to nearby hospitals, with

Both drivers were transported to nearby hospitals, with the car's driver listed in a stable condition. The van's occupants were assessed for minor injuries at the scene.

Authorities are now investigating the circumstances leading to the carjacking and the subsequent chase, though no charges have been laid as of this morning. Witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage have been urged to come forward.

Traffic on the freeway was disrupted for several hours as crews cleared the debris and re-opened lanes, with drivers advised to expect delays during the morning commute.