A car found abandoned after colliding with a tree in Co Down is believed to have been stolen.
Police say the car, a white Renault Kadjar was taken from a property in the Pinewood View area of Newcastle some time between 7pm and 11pm on Thursday evening after the car keys were removed from inside the house.
Sergeant Ashe said: "Later last night, just before 11.45pm, the car was located abandoned, having seemingly collided with a tree, in the Castlewellan Road area of Rathfriland.
"I am appealing to anyone with information, or who noticed any suspicious activity in the area, to contact us on 101 quoting reference number 448 of 30/04/20.
"I’m also keen to take the opportunity to remind local people to take extra care to keep vehicles safe. Always lock and close the windows of your vehicle when unattended. Keys and ignition fobs should be kept safe, and out of sight and reach. And if you have a garage, use it.
"Advice on keeping homes, cars and belongings safe is available by contacting your local Crime Prevention Officer on 101."
Rathfriland Ulster Unionist Councillor Jill Macauley told Belfast Live that she is relieved nobody was injured.
Cllr Macauley said: "I am relieved that nobody was injured by what was clearly an act of absolute stupidity. Those responsible should be ashamed of themselves, at a time when the community is coming together they are creating mayhem, it’s disappointing that some would find this type of behaviour acceptable.
"Obviously not adhering to lockdown or social distancing measures they choose to wreck and steal, you’ve to wonder what goes through their heads. I commend local police for their actions and I’d appeal for anyone with information to come forward, help rid our community of mindless criminality."
