Elderly Man Arrested After Alleged Attempted Shooting at Hoppers Crossing Workshop
HOPPERS CROSSING, Victoria — An 81-year-old man has been arrested after allegedly attempting to shoot a 23-year-old man at a workshop in Hoppers Crossing, prompting a significant police response and an aerial search.
According to police, the incident unfolded when the elderly suspect allegedly confronted the younger man at a workshop before attempting to fire several shots. Authorities allege the firearm failed to discharge each time, preventing anyone from being struck.
Following the alleged attack, the man reportedly walked calmly back to his vehicle and drove away from the scene.
Emergency services responded to the workshop shortly after the incident, while officers launched an extensive search for the suspect. The Police Air Wing assisted in tracking the vehicle, which was later located on Industrial Avenue.
Police said the suspect later surrendered to authorities and was subsequently arrested on Old Geelong Road without further incident.
The 23-year-old man was not physically injured during the encounter.
Authorities have not released the identity of the 81-year-old suspect, and investigators have not yet determined or disclosed the nature of the relationship, if any, between the suspect and the intended victim.
The firearm involved has been seized for forensic examination as detectives continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the alleged attack.
Police are expected to provide further information, including any charges laid against the suspect, as the investigation progresses.
The incident remains under investigation. More details will be released as they become available.