Geelong pensioner charged with attacking ATM with crowbar and setting it on fire

A 71-year-old Geelong man has been charged after he was allegedly caught on CCTV blowing up an ATM after bashing it with a crowbar.

Police say Ivan Edwards approached the bank machine, located on Pakington Street, after 2.30am, armed with a crowbar and jerry can.

He allegedly swung at the ATM several times before pouring petrol over it and lighting it on fire.

CCTV footage shows smoke billowing from the machine while flames lick the shopfront, before the teller machine becomes engulfed.

The arsonist is then seen fleeing the scene.

Local baker Brendan Wilson said he witnessed the attack upon arrival for work. He said the attacker appeared angry, “slamming the door and swearing”.

Police believe Mr Edwards tried to withdraw cash from the machine the day prior to the attack but was declined.

Police allege they have found the crowbar and petrol can used in the attack within Mr Edwards’ house, as well as the shoes and jacket he was seen allegedly wearing in the CCTV footage.

Mr Edwards has since been taken into custody charged with criminal damage.

He will front court on Friday.