Car thief accused of torching stolen vehicle on catastrophic fire day
Trevor Hansen, 28, faces 22 charges for car thefts and recklessly causing a bushfire on a catastrophic fire danger day.
Trevor Hansen appeared in Ballarat Magistrates Court on Wednesday. Hansen abandoned his bail application.
He remains in custody. Hansen faces 22 charges.
The main ones involve stealing nine vehicles worth about $270,000 across western Victoria. He is also accused of recklessly causing a bushfire at Dunkeld on January 27, 2026.
This was a catastrophic fire danger day. He allegedly torched a stolen car with Alannah Piscopo, 21.
Police found Hansen with a diagnostic tool used to steal cars. They also found about 30 grams of methamphetamine and other drugs.
Other charges include methamphetamine trafficking, driving while disqualified, and failing to help after an accident. His court matters were adjourned to October 13.
Prosecutors will negotiate further about resolving the charges.
- 22
- Total charges
- 9 vehicles worth $270,000
- Vehicles stolen
- January 27, 2026
- Bushfire date
- 28
- Defendant age
Why it mattersA person accused of deliberately lighting a fire during extreme danger faces serious criminal charges. Such actions show reckless risk to life and property.
AustraliaThe case involves a major car theft operation across western Victoria and shows risks from feral car thieves during catastrophic fire conditions.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 22 h ago
