Media releases – Tasmania Police

30 Drivers Detected Using Mobile Phones in Launceston Traffic Operation

Saturday, 17 June 2023 – 8:29 am

Police have expressed disappointment following a traffic operation conducted in Launceston yesterday that targeted inattentive driver behaviour.

The operation that utilised covert patrols of the Launceston Central Business District yielded the following detections:

  • 30 drivers were caught using their mobile phones whilst driving.
  • 1 driver was caught failing to wear a seat belt.
  • 2 drivers were caught failing to comply with traffic lights.
  • 6 other traffic-related offences were detected.

Acting Inspector Stuart Greenwood said that it was disappointing that so many motorists in the Launceston CBD were detected driving whilst distracted by their phones.

“Distraction is one of the fatal five contributors to serious and fatal crashes.  A distracted driver places themselves, their passengers and other road users at risk of serious injury due to the increased likelihood of causing a crash.”

“Safety on our roads is a priority for Tasmania Police. We will continue to conduct both highly visible and covert operations that target the fatal five – speeding, fatigue, distraction, seatbelts, and alcohol and drugs.”

The penalty for using a mobile phone while driving is a fine of $362 and 3 demerit points.

Youth charged with Aggravated Armed Robbery at Woolworths, Claremont

Sunday, 18 June 2023 – 8:28 am

Police have charged a 15-year-old youth with Aggravated Armed Robbery in relation to an incident at Woolworths Claremont last night.

At 10.20pm the youth approached the loading area at the rear of the store, where staff members were conducting night fill. The youth struck a staff member with a small axe and threatened a second staff member. The youth then pulled a trolley containing various drinks out of the loading bay and stole several cartons from it before leaving the area, damaging a parked vehicle on his way.

The youth was located a short time later and arrested without incident. The stolen drinks were also located and recovered. He was later charged with Aggravated Armed Robbery and detained for court.

The injured staff member was taken by ambulance to the Royal Hobart Hospital where he was treated for non-life threatening injuries.

Two other youths were also present however did not enter the store and ran away during the incident.

Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or may have any information is urged to contact Tasmania Police on 131 444 or report anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at www.crimestoppers.com.au.

Crash investigation ongoing into Longford serious crash

Sunday, 18 June 2023 – 3:16 pm

Police have completed examinations at the scene of a serious single car crash on Illawarra Road at Longford which occurred around 4.45am this morning.

As a result of the crash four people were transported to hospital for medical treatment:

  • A 32-year-old woman from Summerhill in a critical condition
  • A 29-year-old woman and a 31-year-old woman, both from Longford in serious conditions
  • A 53-year-old male from Trevallyn with non-life threatening injuries

The police investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of the crash.

Fatal motor vehicle crash – Bass Highway, Latrobe

Monday, 19 June 2023 – 3:30 am

Sadly a 19 year old man has died following a crash on the Bass Highway, Latrobe last night.

A three-vehicle crash occurred about 7:30pm. All three vehicles had single occupants who were transported to hospital.

A Launceston man in his 20s was treated for non life threatening injuries and a 17 year old remains in a serious but stable condition.

Sadly the 19 year old Devonport man died from his injuries.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation, however wet weather is believed to be a contributing factor.

Anyone who witnessed the crash and has not already provided their details to police, or has dash camera footage, should contact Tasmania Police on 131 444 and quote job number 320-18062023.

Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of those involved in the crash. A report will be prepared for the coroner.

Repeat traffic offender remanded in custody

Monday, 19 June 2023 – 10:13 am

Police have charged a 50-year-old man with several counts of driving while disqualified and providing false information to police after being caught twice in two days.

The man was arrested in Strahan on Friday for driving while disqualified and was released on bail. He was caught driving again the following day, in Zeehan, and was once again arrested.

He appeared in court on Sunday and was remanded in custody to reappear at a later date.

Police investigating Pontville hooning

Monday, 19 June 2023 – 11:52 am

Tasmania Police is investigating reports of hooning and burnouts on Brighton Road, Pontville on Saturday 17 June 2023.

Inspector Marco Ghedini said that shortly after 3pm, two vehicles, a silver Holden Commodore and a white Holden Statesman were observed to be driving in an extremely dangerous manner outside St Mathews Catholic Church at Pontville.

“Police have reviewed footage from the incident, which depicts both vehicles being driven in an appalling manner”, Inspector Ghedini said.

“The drivers of these vehicles have caused significant concern to members of the public. They have not only endangered themselves, but have caused unacceptable risk to the safety of other road users”.

Inspector Ghedini said that police are actively investigating the incident with a view to proceeding against the drivers, and are following a specific line of enquiry.

“Police will continue to be proactive in keeping our roads safe and we encourage the community to help us”.

Anyone who sees dangerous driving behaviour can report it to police immediately on 131 444.

If you see dangerous driving but can’t report it at the time and you have footage, you can upload to the Tasmania Police evidence portal (police.tas.gov.au/report).