Taylors Hill car fires: Teen severely burnt after alleged organised crime gang firebombing in Melbourne

A teenage boy has been severely burned after the car he was in was firebombed in a suspected case of organised crime in Melbourne’s north west.

Emergency services were called to a location on Woolwich Way in Taylors Hill just after 5am on Monday morning, following reports two cars had been set on fire.

As the vehicles were engulfed in flames, police say a teenage boy was located nearby with severe burns to his body.

“It is believed the injured teen had attempted to flee in a white Hyundai Tucson, before the vehicle crashed into bushes,” a police statement said.

Police say the white Hyundai Tucson is believed to have been stolen from the south-west Melbourne suburb of Hoppers Hill, approximately 22km away, on Sunday.

Detective Inspector Chris Murray described the incident as a “devastating” consequence of young people getting targeted by organised crime groups.

“Young people are increasingly being targeted and exploited by organised crime groups to carry out high-risk criminal activity,” Detective Inspector Murray said.

These groups often use teenagers because they believe they are less likely to attract attention or face the same consequences as adult offenders,” Detective Inspector Murray said.

“In reality, young offenders can be left carrying the full burden of the risks while those directing the criminal activity remain in the background.

“To young people considering getting involved in these crimes, I say, the risks are real, arson isn’t worth your life. Don’t risk being seriously injured, killed, or imprisoned carrying out attacks for organised crime figures who see you as disposable.”

Police are urging anyone with any information about the alleged firebombing, including dashcam or CCTV footage, to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.