A CAR has been dumped and torched along Dead Horse Lane in an act labelled “pure stupidity” by local authorities.
Police are appealing for information after the vehicle was dumped on the dirt road on the outskirts of Swan Hill sometime between Monday night and yesterday morning.
It is the third vehicle dumped along the road in recent months, with two stolen vehicles discovered alight in late August.
Police have not suggested the latest incident is linked.
Senior Sergeant Brian Hansen told The Guardian police had received no reports of a stolen vehicle from the local area prior to the incident.
“The car was discovered burnt out down Dead Horse Lane, we don’t know if it was stolen yet, our members are still processing the scene,” Snr-Sgt Hansen said.
“We are speculating at the moment, based on previous incidents that have occurred in the same area, but we do not know the exact circumstances at this time.”
Snr-Sgt Hansen said the vehicle was discovered at about 7am yesterday morning, with police appealing for any witnesses to come forward.
Snr-Sgt Hansen said police had not yet received any reports of persons behaving suspiciously in the area around that time.
“Any witnesses or anyone with information is urged to contact the Swan Hill Police Station on 5036 1600, or call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000,” Snr-Sgt Hansen said.
Swan Hill CFA captain Dennis Turner slammed the act as irresponsible and dangerous amid current conditions.
“It’s pure stupidity,” he told The Guardian.
“You just have to see where that car is and you know you have to be a muppet to be doing that.
“It’s bloody disappointing, especially with the total fire ban on Monday and the conditions overnight.”
Capt Turner said the CFA was not called to attend the fire, with the vehicle burning out on its own before police attended.
