Interstate police chase ends with suspect jumping into Lake Burley Griffin

The Ford Ranger allegedly drove on the wrong side of the road multiple times, and on median strips. Photo: Screenshot.

An interstate car chase ended when the alleged driver jumped into Lake Burley Griffin in an attempt to escape from the pursuing police officers.

The incident began in NSW on Tuesday (8 April) when police began chasing a black Ford Ranger that was towing a car trailer with a Toyota Hilux on it.

The Ranger crossed the ACT border on Canberra Avenue in Fyshwick, so NSW Police alerted ACT Policing to the incident at about 9 am.

The car then allegedly drove onto the wrong side of the road multiple times, as well as on footpaths along the foreshore of Lake Burley Griffin, placing other road users and pedestrians at significant risk, an ACT Policing spokesperson said.

It came to a stop behind the National Gallery, near the Sculpture Garden, before the alleged driver jumped into the lake.

Tactical Response officers had to get into the water to retrieve the 38-year-old man, then arrested him when he was back on the shore.

He was subjected to a roadside drug test, which allegedly returned a positive result, while a search of the Ranger allegedly resulted in the discovery of ammunition and a knife.

The man is expected to face the ACT Magistrates Court this week.

A 35-year-old male passenger of the Ranger is assisting with police enquiries.

Police are continuing to investigate the incident and are requesting anyone with footage of the Ford Ranger towing a Toyota Hilux in Fyshwick, Kingston and Barton on Tuesday morning to come forward.

If you witnessed the incident or can provide information, visit the Crime Stoppers ACT website. Quote reference number P2340936.