Woman struck with own car attempting to stop a thief in Middleton

Police are appealing for information after a woman was struck with her own car while trying to stop a thief in Middleton.

At around 1.30pm yesterday, (Wednesday 7th August 2019) a man entered a doctor’s surgery on Clough Street, Middleton and stole a handbag containing car keys, bank cards and money.

The man used the car keys to steal a red Dacia Sandero from outside the surgery.

The car’s owner ran outside to try and stop the man, who then collided with her, temporarily trapping her between two vehicles. 

The car then collided with two other parked vehicles before the suspect got out of the car and ran off towards Middleton town centre. 

He’s described as a man in his late 20s, around 5ft 8ins tall and of stocky build. 

He was wearing a black baseball cap, black jacket with gold lines down the arms, black tracksuit pants and black trainers. 

The woman, aged in her 20s, was taken to hospital with pelvic injuries that are not believed to be life threatening. She was discharged following treatment. 

Police are appealing for information on the incident.

Detective Inspector Karl Ward of GMP’s Rochdale District said, “This was a shocking incident that occurred in broad daylight outside a busy doctor’s surgery.

“Thankfully, the woman is recovering well– but it’s only by good fortune that her injuries were not more severe.

“We believe there may be serval potential witnesses to this crime.

“Were you in the area at the time of the incident? Perhaps you saw the car shortly after the incident or have dashcam footage that may assist our enquiries.

“If you have any details that can assist us, please get in touch as soon as possible.”

Information can be left with police on 0161 856 8420 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

---

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.