Moment car owner dragged during Perth petrol station theft

Footage has captured the moment a man was dragged by his own car in what police have blasted as a “brazen” crime.

CCTV footage has captured the moment a car owner was dragged from his reversing vehicle after confronting a “brazen” thief.

The incident occurred on Wednesday night in Perth’s southeast as a man stopped at a 7-Eleven petrol station on Orrong Rd to buy a cup of noodles.

Parking outside, the man in his 30s left his Toyota Camry unlocked with the keys in the ignition.

Footage shows a man quickly take advantage by climbing into the vehicle as the owner runs back outside.

He can bee seen opening the driver’s side-door as the thief quickly reverses away.

CCTV from the front of the store shows the two men struggling. Picture: WA Police

The victim fell from the moving car. Picture: WA Police

Detective Constable Shannon Parker said the man became trapped in the door as the vehicle reversed, and was dragged along the ground for a short distance.

“It’s a very serious crime that's been committed,” he said.

“The actions of the offender are quite brazen. As a result of the incident, the victim has then sustained injuries to his face and arms and was taken to Royal Perth Hospital for treatment.”

The vehicle, identified as a 1996 silver Toyota Camry with plates 9HM769, was stolen in the encounter.

Detective Constable Parker said police were hoping the footage would assist identifying a bearded man seen prior to the incident.

“Detectives are appealing for information from the public about this incident … come forward and contact Crime Stoppers,” he said.

Crime Stoppers can be reached on 1800 333 000 or online at http://crimestoppperswa.com.au.

Originally published as Moment car owner dragged during Perth petrol station theft