In a shocking incident that has left fans and onlookers stunned, Australian pop star Guy Sebastian was arrested at gunpoint on Monday evening in Los Angeles, after being found driving a stolen vehicle that allegedly belonged to Olympic swimming legend Ian Thorpe.
According to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), the arrest occurred near Sunset Boulevard, following a high-alert report from Thorpe’s security team after his Hollywood Hills home was broken into earlier that day.
The Arrest
At approximately 7:45 PM local time, LAPD officers responded to reports of a luxury vehicle — a black 2023 Mercedes-Benz G-Class SUV — reported stolen from Thorpe’s private residence. The car was fitted with a tracking system, allowing authorities to locate it swiftly.
When officers approached the vehicle in traffic and ordered the driver to step out, they were reportedly stunned to find that the driver was none other than Guy Sebastian, one of Australia’s most recognizable music personalities.
“Due to the nature of the call — a stolen vehicle linked to a high-profile break-in — officers followed standard procedure and performed a felony stop with weapons drawn,” said LAPD spokesperson Officer Renee Chavez. “The suspect complied fully and was taken into custody without incident.”
A Bizarre Connection
The circumstances surrounding why Sebastian was behind the wheel of a stolen vehicle remain unclear. Initial investigations suggest he may not have known the vehicle was reported stolen.
Sources close to the investigation say the 42-year-old singer claimed the vehicle was “lent to him by a mutual friend” who told him it was part of a rental arrangement. However, no such agreement could be confirmed, and the supposed friend has not yet been identified.
“Mr. Sebastian appeared confused and genuinely surprised by the situation,” a law enforcement source told The Hollywood Reporter. “He was cooperative and respectful throughout the process.”
Sebastian was detained for questioning and later released pending further investigation. He has not been charged at this time.
Ian Thorpe Responds
Ian Thorpe, the five-time Olympic gold medalist, is said to be “shocked and deeply unsettled” by the break-in. His representatives released a brief statement on Tuesday:
“Mr. Thorpe was not at home at the time of the burglary. He is cooperating fully with authorities and wishes to thank the LAPD for their swift response. The incident is under investigation, and no further comment will be made at this stage.”
While the stolen car was the primary item reported missing, investigators are examining whether any personal documents or valuables were also taken from the residence.
Public Reaction and Speculation
Social media exploded with reactions ranging from disbelief to conspiracy theories, with hashtags like #GuySebastian and #IanThorpe trending within hours.
Fans expressed concern and confusion, with many urging the public to withhold judgment until all facts are known.
“There’s got to be more to this story. Guy’s not the kind of person to do something like this,” one fan tweeted. “Let the investigation play out.”
What’s Next?
LAPD is continuing to investigate the break-in at Thorpe’s residence and the origin of the vehicle Sebastian was driving. Surveillance footage, phone records, and additional witness statements are currently being reviewed.
Neither Guy Sebastian nor his management team has made an official public statement as of this writing.
Legal experts note that if Sebastian genuinely did not know the vehicle was stolen, he may face no charges — but if it’s found he was knowingly in possession of stolen property, consequences could be severe.
This unexpected entanglement between two of Australia’s most beloved public figures has raised many questions, but one thing is certain: the full truth has yet to come to light.
