Police charge teen over horrific Harbour Bridge smash
A 19-year-old Queensland man has been charged by detectives for allegedly stealing a car before causing a fiery three-car crash that closed the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Police were able to identify the man as Christopher Walker one day after releasing a photo of his arm and calling on the public to help.
The image showed a distinctive tattoo of a large eye on Mr Walker's hand with wavy lines that extended across his fingers and wrist.
Police released an image to help them identify the driver. Image: NSW Police
They allege he drove a Toyota Kluger SUV which swerved into oncoming traffic and careened into a van on Monday morning.
#Sydney Harbour Bridge closed due to a terrible multi-vehicle crash that brought all lanes to a standstill.
Motorists have been advised to avoid the area and use Sydney Harbour Tunnel instead.
Stay safe #SydneyHarbour @dryadusingh @DrAmitSarwal pic.twitter.com/umbbU6oiIg
— The Australia Today (@TheAustoday) March 6, 2022
Mr Walker remains in hospital under police guard, where he is being treated for suspected head injuries.
Police have laid several charges against him, including dangerous driving causing grievous bodily harm and assault with intent to take/drive motor vehicle.
Police also allege Mr Walker stole the keys to the SUV from a man he assaulted in the CBD just before 7am on Monday.
Emergency services were then called to the three-car crash a short time later, after the SUV flipped on its roof and burst into flames during morning peak hour.
The Sydney Harbour Bridge is closed and three people have been injured – including one who was trapped – after a horror head-on crash during peak hour.
Inquiries are continuing into the incident.#australia #sydney #habourbridge pic.twitter.com/1U05QgKMpV
— 5 News Australia (@5NewsAustralia) March 7, 2022
The two other drivers were taken to hospital to be treated for their injuries, with the van driver sustaining serious leg and pelvic injuries and a woman driving a Honda Civic sustaining minor injuries.
Police have spoken to several witnesses over the past few days who were on the bridge at the time of the collision of saw the lead-up.
Mr Walker appeared before Central Local Court via a bedside hearing on Wednesday afternoon, where he was formally refused bail.
He is due to appear in court again on March 23.
Image: @5NewsAustralia (Twitter)