Hume Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged a man following an alleged carjacking in Broadmeadows on 3 May.
Officers have been told a 33-year-old woman was driving a Toyota Kluger with two children onboard in Broadmeadows about 5.30pm.
It is alleged the vehicle stopped in traffic on Coleraine Street and a man opened the rear passenger door before getting in.
The victim immediately exited the SUV, ran to the other side and attempted to pull the man out but was pushed to the ground.
He allegedly climbed over the centre console, got into the driver's seat and attempted to lock the doors.
The victim managed to get into the front passenger seat before the man started to drive the SUV along Pascoe Vale Road.
The pair struggled for control of the vehicle before it crossed onto the wrong side of the road and crashed into railway fencing.
A number of passers-by and other motorists came to aid of the woman and the children and detained the man until police arrived a short time later.
Detectives have interviewed an 18-year-old man from Broadmeadows and have charged him with carjacking, theft of motor vehicle and other offences.
He will face Broadmeadows Magistrates' Court on Thursday.
