Man on the run after hitting police car and smashing into tree

A man is on the run after two cars, including a police car, were hit at Essendon.

Police said they responded to reports of a man acting suspiciously along Salmon Avenue about 8.15am.

When they approached the man, he got into a parked car and collided with the police vehicle at the intersection of Napier Street.

It was initially reported as a ramming, but police now believe the crash was incidental.

The same car was then involved in another collision at the intersection of Napier and Woodlands streets before losing control and crashing into a tree.

The driver then fled on foot.

Nobody was injured during either collision.

A search is currently underway to locate the man in the nearby area.

He is perceived to be Caucasian in appearance and aged between 18-20, with a medium build.

He was wearing a white or grey hoodie and dark pants.

Anyone who sees the man is urged to call Triple Zero (000).