UPDATE: A 19-year-old has sparked chaos in Adelaide’s bustling CBD after climbing a 70-metre crane and refusing to descend for a staggering eight hours. The incident, which unfolded on November 17, 2025, on King William Street, drew a large crowd and prompted urgent police negotiations.
The teenager, armed with cable ties, was seen precariously perched at a commercial building site as officers from the Special Tasks and Rescue Group worked tirelessly to bring him down safely. Witnesses reported seeing the teen shift from inside the crane to the outside, alarming onlookers below. “We were really concerned for his safety,” said local resident Mikaela Mudie. “He kept going higher and higher.”
Authorities confirmed that the tense standoff began around 8 PM and lasted until approximately 4:30 AM the following morning. After hours of negotiation, the teenager finally descended and was immediately taken to the hospital. He was later arrested and is expected to face charges of trespass and obstructing a public place.
The extraordinary scene garnered widespread attention, with videos circulating online and drawing criticism for the disruption caused. Many social media users expressed outrage, stating that the stunt wasted valuable emergency resources. “Crazy. He put not only himself at risk but other people,” one user commented.
As local authorities continue to assess the situation, it raises important questions about public safety and the implications of such reckless actions. The police have not yet released further details on the charges, but public interest remains high.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as authorities work to address the aftermath of this chaotic event in Adelaide’s CBD.
