Police have released images of a burnt-out vehicle as they investigate an assault, carjacking and car fire on the state's north at the weekend.
About 5pm on Saturday (30 October 2021), officers attached to Richmond Police District were called to a carpark at River Street, West Ballina, following reports of a brawl.
Police were told a man was approached by three males – one armed with a machete – before being assaulted by the group.
Following the assault, one of the armed men drove from the scene in the victim's white Toyota Hilux, while the other two men left the area in a black Range Rover.
The injured man was assisted by a passer-by and left the scene prior to emergency services attending.
A short time later, police were called to the intersection of Teven Gap Roads at Alstonville, following reports a Range Rover had caught fire after hitting an embankment.
NSW Fire & Rescue officers extinguished the blaze; however, no occupants were located in the vehicle.
Police located prohibited drugs around the vehicle, which were seized for forensic examination.
Initial inquiries have led police to believe the incidents are linked.
As investigations continue, police have released images of a burnt-out Range Rover.
Anyone who may have dashcam footage or who witnessed the incidents is urged to come forward.
Detectives are also interested in speaking with anyone who may have dashcam footage between West Ballina and Alstonville between 5pm and 6:30pm.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
