headline

Man critically injured after plot to blow up ATM backfires

An alleged would-be thief has suffered life-changing injuries after a homemade bomb was used to blow up an ATM in Melbourne's CBD overnight.

Three people used the explosives to break open the ATM at Melbourne's Queen Victoria Market on Victoria Street around 2.45am, police allege.

"The homemade device ignited in the face of one of the men, leaving him with serious and life-changing injuries," a Victoria Police spokesperson said.

READ MORE: Historical Sydney department store revived by great grandson

Police allege three offenders used a homemade explosive device to blow up the ATM.

The trio fled on foot, before the injured man was found a short time later on Peel Street.

He was rushed to hospital under police guard with serious facial injuries, where he remains in a critical condition.

Arson and Explosives Squad Detective Inspector Chris Murray appealed for the other offenders to hand themselves in.

"I have said it before and I will say it again: fire and incendiary devices are volatile, unpredictable and incredibly dangerous in untrained hands," Murray said.

"Two other men present at the scene fled, leaving their associate severely injured.

Cash lay around the ATM as forensics examined the scene today.

"It is only a matter of time until you are identified and arrested – I would appeal to you to visit your nearest police station and hand yourselves in before then."

Police said the incident is not related to a spate of attacks on hospitality venues across Melbourne. 

The investigation remains ongoing.

NEVER MISS A STORY: Get your breaking news and exclusive stories first by following us across all platforms.