Arabic version: مراهق يسعى للإقرار بالذنب في قضية حادث وسط ملبورن

According to ABC News, a 16-year-old boy told a Children’s Court he wanted to plead guilty to charges connected to an alleged crash involving a stolen car and a pedestrian near Flinders Street Station in Melbourne’s CBD.

The incident occurred on October 11, when a 57-year-old woman was struck near the intersection of Flinders Street and Elizabeth Street. She was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Witnesses described chaotic scenes near the Melbourne Marathon, where thousands of people were competing.

Police alleged a stolen Ford Escape was driven erratically through the city, including along tram tracks on Flinders Street, before the woman was hit. They further alleged the vehicle travelled along Flinders Lane and struck several parked cars. Police and Protective Services Officers drew their firearms when the driver allegedly performed a U-turn outside the station.

Appearing by video link, the teenager asked the magistrate whether he could plead guilty that day, saying he wanted to plead guilty to all of the allegations. His defence lawyer said the matter needed to be discussed more carefully before a plea could be entered. The boy faces charges including reckless conduct endangering serious injury, numerous driving offences, failing to render assistance, theft and handling stolen goods.

The teenager was arrested in Albert Park later on October 11. Police ruled out terrorism or a targeted attack. During the hearing, he raised concerns about journalists watching remotely, and his lawyer said he would not be identified in reporting for legal reasons. He is also facing unrelated charges, and all of his matters are due to be listed together at the next hearing on November 19.