Car theft bid with teenager on board

police are appealing for witnesses after a man tried to steal a car - while the teenage passenger was still inside.

at around 9.30pm last Wednesday (september 7), the man got into a white peugeot 208 parked in Lime grove, Craigshill, Livingstone, while the teenager was sitting in the passenger seat of the vehicle.

the suspect then attempted to drive off but was unable to get away after the passenger successfully removed the keys from the ignition.

the teenager ran off but was pursued by the suspect who attacked him and attempted to snatch the keys.

the suspect then left the area but not without first attempting to push the car from the street before eventually giving up.

He was last seen heading in the direction of Craigshill East Road before being lost from view.

anyone who can help identify him is asked to come forward.

He is described as white, approximately 19 years old and around five feet six tall.

He was wearing a grey hooded tracksuit with the hood up partially covering his face, grey tracksuit bottoms and dark-coloured adidas trainers.

Detective Constable Iain Duncan of Livingston CID said: “although the victim was not seriously injured the brazen nature of this crime is quite remarkable.

“We are pursuing various lines of inquiry, including a review of the local CCtV network and carrying out door-to-door inquiries.

“However, I’m now appealing to anyone in the local community who can help identify the suspect to come forward.

“I’d also be interested to hear from anyone who was in the Craigshill area of Livingston on Wednesday night and who noticed any suspicious behaviour.”

anyone with information is asked to contact police scotland on 101.

Or, alternatively, an anonymous report can be made to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.