Police are searching for two people as they continue inquiries into a pursuit and subsequent car fire at Coffs Harbour today (Saturday 1 February 2025),
Officers attached to Coffs/Clarence Police District investigating a reported theft of tools worth an estimated $5000 from a vehicle in a hotel carpark in Coffs Harbour on Thursday (30 January 2025), were provided with a description of a vehicle potentially connected.
Later that night, the described vehicle – which was displaying stolen number plates – was involved in two pursuits at 6.50pm and 11.15pm on Friday (31 January 2025), in the Park Beach area.
Earlier today (Saturday 1 February 2025), the vehicle was seen and attempts were made to stop the driver on Hogbin Drive, Park Beach. The driver instead continued and a pursuit was initiated, during which it hit a trailer being towed. The driver was not injured and the pursuit was terminated.
About 2.40pm, police were alerted to a vehicle matching the description next to Coffs Harbour Hospital, where a man was seen attempting to change a tyre. For unknown reasons, the vehicle caught fire and the man, and a woman with him, ran from the scene and flames engulfed the vehicle.
The sedan was destroyed and a patient transport van was damaged before the fire could be extinguished.
A perimeter was established and a search undertaken to find the couple, with additional assistance by the police dog unit. The search concluded unsuccessfully at 5.30pm.
Police are now appealing for public assistance to locate a man and woman they believe can assist with their inquiries.
The man is described as being aged in his mid-20s, of Caucasian appearance, 170cm-175cm tall, with a medium build. When last seen he was wearing black jeans and a black t-shirt.
The woman is described as being in her mid-20s, of Caucasian appearance, 165cm-170cm tall, with a slim build. When last seen she was wearing a black crop top and black shorts.
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.
