A 66-year-old woman is fighting for life after a carjacker struck her with her own vehicle outside a hospital in Melbourne’s south-east.

In a shocking incident at Casey Hospital in Berwick, Melbourne, a 66-year-old woman is currently fighting for her life after a car thief struck her with her own vehicle. This distressing occurrence took place around 10:45 AM on Wednesday, when the victim was dropping off her husband at the emergency department. Eyewitness reports indicate that a man, who had just emerged from the hospital, jumped into their car. The woman, witnessing her vehicle being stolen, attempted to intervene when she was hit by the car. Emergency responders quickly transferred her to The Alfred hospital, where she remains in critical condition but stabilized as of Wednesday evening. Authorities have confirmed that as of the latest updates, the stolen vehicle—a 2012 brown Ford Territory with registration number DEX 581—has not yet been recovered, nor has the suspect been apprehended. Victoria Police are actively searching for both the vehicle and the offender, and they have called upon the public for any information or footage related to this incident. This incident raises serious concerns regarding safety not just at healthcare facilities but also the pervasive issue of vehicle theft in the area, which calls for community vigilance and law enforcement action to prevent such occurrences in the future. Casey Hospital's involvement in the ongoing investigation highlights the need for improved security measures in public spaces, particularly those serving vulnerable populations. The response from the local community has been one of shock and outrage. Such brazen acts of crime in broad daylight reinforce fears regarding public safety—a sentiment echoed by many in the region, reflecting a growing unease about the potential risks that individuals face. The police's appeal for witnesses serves to remind us of the critical role that community engagement plays in ensuring safety and security. It underscores the responsibility of citizens to remain aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious behavior to aid in the apprehension of offenders. As this story develops, it raises broader conversations about systemic issues related to crime, healthcare safety, and public community initiatives to combat such violence. Simple acts of dropping off a loved one should not put one’s life at risk, leading to discussions on how we can enhance safety measures in public spaces.