Fallen ex-AFL star allegedly held at gunpoint in ‘terrifying hostage drama’ over car deal

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Fallen ex-AFL star Tarryn Thomas was allegedly involved in a “terrifying hostage drama”, held at gunpoint over a car deal gone wrong, according to a report.

The former North Melbourne player, who lost his footy career over multiple off-field incidents involving women, was with a friend in Ballarat when the incident took place.

Nine News’ Isabel Quinlan reported Thomas and his mate met with a group of men around 9pm at a pub on a Saturday night.

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“They’ve stayed there for about an hour, and as they were driving to another location, that’s when things took a turn,” Quinlan reported.

“Nine News understands that Tarryn told police that two men held him and his friend at gunpoint, demanding that they sign over the papers to their car and hand over thousands of dollars.

“After allegedly being held hostage for several hours, it’s understood Tarryn and his friend have eventually cut a deal and convinced these men to drop them off at a property where they have managed to call police.

“Now, police were investigating this incident for several days, but Tarryn Thomas retracted his statement.

“We have reached out to his lawyer, who has not responded to our request for comment. Tarryn has since deleted his Instagram account and it is understood that the car has been found and returned.”

HOBART, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 06: Tarryn Thomas of the Kangaroos runs the ball during the round 21 AFL match between North Melbourne Kangaroos and Melbourne Demons at Blundstone Arena, on August 06, 2023, in Hobart, Australia. (Photo by Steve Bell/Getty Images) Source: FOX SPORTS

Thomas was axed by the Kangaroos in February 2024 over repeated conduct breaches and was suspended for 18 games by the AFL.

A charge regarding the harassment of a former partner was heard in court before being dropped and Thomas eventually pleaded guilty to breaching a court order, but avoided a criminal conviction. He was given a 12-month good behaviour bond under the conditions he remain offence free for the next year and continue to engage with the medical practitioners.

After Thomas’ November 2024 court case, the AFL declared he must “consistently demonstrate a change of behaviour for any application on his behalf to even be considered” for approval to return to the top level.

He is permitted to play state-league football this year but could not find a home after being considered by teams in both the VFL and WAFL.

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