It's a typical scene for the majority of us: enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, watching TV in the living room, and thinking about what we’ll be having for supper later. Of course, moments like these give us peace, but for one Queensland retiree, this cosy scene turned into a nightmare.

Imagine the horror when Bruce Shoobridge's Monday afternoon was rocked by the sudden impact of a butcher's truck, which slammed into his Mansfield home's back deck.

'The whole house shook, and I just thought “what the f***?”' recalls Bruce.

But how on Earth did a butcher's truck end up pummelling into an unsuspecting retiree's home?

Well, as strange as it may sound, this was the startling end to a police pursuit that lasted 45 minutes across Queensland's southeast.

According to reports, a butcher's truck that was out of control allegedly led police on a 45-minute chase throughout the southeast region of Queensland, ultimately colliding with cars and a residential property. Image by Pixabay

It all began when the truck was swiped from Mooloolaba Wharves earlier in the day when the driver took a few moments to deliver a restaurant order.

Those few minutes were enough for the alleged thief, Matthew David Trevor, to steal the vehicle and set himself on a collision course.

This whirlwind adventure saw the butcher's truck smashing into cars and causing utter pandemonium. Security cameras later captured Trevor stopping at a Sunshine Coast hardware store with a female companion, purchasing cans of silver spray paint which they apparently used to (poorly) obscure the truck's logos.

Alert and loyal customers called in multiple sightings of the butcher's truck on the Bruce Highway, leading the authorities to follow the vehicle via helicopter.

Despite the intensity of the pursuit, it was the unsuspecting Shoobridge's back deck where the truck came to a screeching halt.

Damien John, representing Fresh Meats, emphasised that the repercussions extended beyond the damaged truck itself. Image by idelamaza from Unsplash

Fresh Meats' Damien John expressed concern over the stolen vehicle, stating that the damages could amount to as high as $40,000. This figure includes the now-ruined meat that must be disposed of.

Takeaways​

Key Takeaways

• An out-of-control butcher's truck led police on a 45-minute pursuit across Queensland's southeast before crashing into cars and a retiree's home.
• The truck was swiped from Mooloolaba Wharves while its driver was delivering to a restaurant.
• The alleged suspect, Matthew David Trevor, has been charged with multiple offences, including the dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, robbery with violence, and possession of dangerous drugs.
• The damages from the incident, including the loss of damaged meat, are estimated to be up to $40,000.

Matthew David Trevor now faces multiple charges, including dangerous operation of a motor vehicle while adversely affected by an intoxicating substance, robbery with violence, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, as well as three counts of stealing and possession of dangerous drugs.

His case was adjourned and will return to the Cleveland Magistrates Court shortly.

Members, your safety and the security of your property should always be a top priority. To protect yourself in case of unexpected incidents, it is recommended that you have home insurance.

Home insurance offers significant benefits, particularly in situations where unforeseen events cause damage.

In addition to having insurance, implementing security measures for your home can provide an extra layer of protection. Consider installing security cameras and reinforcing doors and windows to deter potential intruders or rogue vehicles.

We want to extend our heartfelt sympathies to Bruce Shoobridge. It is shocking to have one's home violated in such a manner, especially during his well-earned years of peace and tranquillity.

In light of this, we want to know: has there ever been a moment when a peaceful and ordinary day took an unexpected turn, resulting in a shocking or disastrous event? How did you handle the situation, and what measures have you taken since then to ensure your safety and security?

Please take a moment to reflect on your experiences and share your thoughts or opinions on the story in the comments down below!

 

[Suzanne rose]

8 months ago I had water gushing under an upstairs wall which also came dripping through a downstairs bedroom.

I got a plumber out straight away and he made safe . I then rang the insurance , they got an someone out .

Cut a story short I had a leaking shower pipe inside the bathroom wall which apparently had been leaking for awhile and showed no signs , then it exploded.

Because tiles needed to be broken this compromised the waterproofing
The insurance company organised a builder, who completely ripped out entire bathroom.
Replaced wooden beams ect then organised the different workmen to replace the whole bathroom.

In the end the cost was $45,000 and I only had to pay excess of $500.

Lucky I was insured.

 

[terri]

Not sure you could ever insure yourself against idiots who drive into your home, but having insurance definitely gives you peace of mind if the worst does happen. Well done Suzanne Rose, your insurance was a winner.