By Molly Magennis
A man and woman were arrested after their romantic actions at a Melbourne CBD train station led to significant damage and the evacuation of two stations.
On October 10, the couple accessed a stairwell connecting platforms at Melbourne Central Station, where they damaged a water pipe and sprinkler. This resulted in “extensive flooding” across several platforms, necessitating the evacuation of both Melbourne Central and Flagstaff Railway stations.
Initially suspected as vandalism, CCTV footage revealed that the couple was engaged in “amorous” activities at the time of the incident, as confirmed by Victoria’s Transport Minister. The footage captured the pair fleeing from the stairwell just as water began to pour out from the damaged sprinkler.
A 30-year-old man from Ringwood was arrested and is facing charges of criminal damage, willful damage, public nuisance, and interference with a fire apparatus. He is currently remanded in custody for unrelated matters. The 32-year-old woman from St Albans was also arrested but has been released pending further inquiries.
The flooding caused major disruptions to the city’s underground rail network, affecting many, including fans of Olivia Rodrigo returning home after her second concert at Rod Laver Arena.
