A couple were injured when they were dragged along the street as they tried to stop a man from stealing their vehicle.
The pair were in their blue Mazda 2 when a man walking down the road damaged a number of cars, including theirs.
The occupants got out of their motor and started arguing with the suspect who got into their car and tried to drive off.
In a desperate bid to stop the car thief they tried to hold on and were dragged along the rough surface of the road, causing minor injuries.
The robbery happened at around 6.25pm on Wednesday in Kilmarnock and the car was found on fire around half an hour later.
Detectives have now launched an investigation into the incident and enquiries are underway to identify the male responsible.
Detective Inspector Andrea Templeton said: "Fortunately neither of the victims were seriously injured, but this was still a very frightening ordeal for them and it was made all the more distressing because of the theft of their vehicle.
"We are pursuing a number of lines of inquiry to identify the suspect and would ask anyone who recognises him, or who witnessed this incident, to contact police immediately.
"Similarly, if your vehicle was in Low Glencairn Street, Kilmarnock, or Tarryholme Drive, Irvine, during the evening of Wednesday, January 4, and has dashcam footage that may be able to assist with our investigation, then please also get in touch."
The suspect is described as white, aged between 20 and 30 with a slim but muscular build, short hair and was wearing a blue jumper.
He is believed to have previously been in the company of a woman in her 20s with a larger build.
Information can be passed to police by calling 101, or alternatively, an anonymous report can be made to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
