Leslie Dam car theft: New details on stolen car found with keys in ignition

Found metres underwater with the keys still in the ignition, it took emergency crews hours to salvage the wreckage. WATCH THE VIDEO HERE:

A wrecked car that was found submerged in Leslie Dam near Warwick has been confirmed as stolen.

Warwick police detective Michael Hauff said the 2006 Nissan Maxima was spotted by fishermen on Wednesday afternoon.

He said the car was reported stolen from Toowoomba earlier this week.

The stolen 2006 Nissan Maxima. Photo: Madison Mifsud-Ure / Warwick Daily News

Senior Constable Hauff said police believed the car was dumped on Tuesday in the dam, with the keys found still in the ignition.

“The vehicle was stolen from Toowoomba and the next thing we know it’s in the drink,” he said.

He said the car was in good condition before it was pulled from the water, but was damaged in the removal.

Senior Constable Hauff said the fuel from the car spilt into the Condamine River, which could potentially impact wildlife.

It took emergency services several hours to tow the silver sedan from the water on Wednesday afternoon.

Stolen car being towed from Leslie Dam. Photo: Madison Mifsud-Ure / Warwick Daily News

Police and fire units were joined by SES volunteers and a swift water rescue team from 1.45pm Wednesday to salvage the submerged vehicle.

Senior Constable Hauff said modern cars were often the primary target for thieves as they would break into homes and steal keys.

“People need to be well aware of their personal safety and security of their homes,” he said.

Senior Constable Hauff said investigations into the incident are ongoing.

Damage of car from being pulled from water. Photo: Madison Mifsud-Ure / Warwick Daily News