Wagga police continue search for second man in alleged Mount Austin armed robbery

Police said the man is of Aboriginal appearance and is believed to be in his 20s.

Detective Inspector Darren Cloake said the vehicle was believed to be connected with the armed robbery at a Mount Austin fuel station involving two male offenders.

One of the men, 19, allegedly involved in the armed robbery was refused bail on Tuesday after fronting Wagga Local Court.

"Yesterday we detected a silver Holden sedan, which we have actively been watching a consequence of the armed robbery on Monday,” Detective Inspector Cloake said.

“We we tried to conduct a vehicle stop, which the vehicle itself failed to yield.

“A pursuit was initiated that was on Lake Albert Road towards Plumpton Road, heading towards Red Hill Road.

“But due to the dangers and risks associated with the manner of driving, the police ceased to pursue it.”

On Tuesday afternoon, a police highway patrol vehicle detected the Holden sedan on McNickle Road [Moorong].

“That being a general location for vehicles being subjected to arson,” Detective Inspector Cloake said.

“The police followed the vehicle right down to the water’s edge and the two male offenders ran from the vehicle and down to the levee bank and swam in the [Murrumbidgee] river.”

One of the men, whom police did not say was involved with the Mount Austin incident, was arrested after turning back to police.

He was charged with a number of alleged traffic incidents.

The second man in Tuesday’s incident escaped to the northern side of the river.

Police conducted an extensive search of the area but were not able to find him.

“As a result, a number of enquiries have been made that confirmed the identity of this male and we’re seeking his whereabouts,” Detective Inspector Cloake said.

Anyone with more information about the incident is are urged to contact Wagga Police Station on 6922 2599.

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