Police in southeastern Norway responded to a dramatic vehicle theft in Drammen early Wednesday morning. Officers received the emergency call at 12:26 AM. The stolen vehicle was later discovered wrecked near the original crime scene.
The car owner suffered injuries after being struck by the thieves during the theft. Emergency services transported the victim to a local hospital for medical evaluation. Police officials confirmed the injuries were not life-threatening.
Operations leader Inge Omli Landsrød provided details about the incident. "During the vehicle theft, the owner of the car was struck. The owner was not seriously injured but was taken by ambulance to the hospital for examination," officials stated.
Vehicle theft in Norway follows concerning patterns that authorities continue to address. Drammen, located just southwest of Oslo, has experienced similar criminal incidents in recent months. The police investigation will likely focus on identifying the perpetrators and examining the circumstances surrounding the collision.
Norwegian law enforcement typically treats vehicle thefts involving personal injury as serious offenses. The Southeast Police District now handles the case, which combines property crime with assault elements. This dual nature could lead to enhanced penalties if suspects are identified and apprehended.
Car owners in Nordic countries face particular challenges with vehicle security during winter months. The common practice of leaving engines running to defrost vehicles creates theft opportunities. Many Norwegian municipalities have launched public awareness campaigns about this security risk.
Local residents expressed concern about the incident's violent nature. Vehicle thefts that escalate to physical violence represent an alarming trend in what were typically property crimes. The psychological impact on victims extends beyond the financial loss of the vehicle.
Police continue their investigation into the Drammen car theft and assault. Authorities urge anyone with information about suspicious activity in the area to contact the Southeast Police District. The victim's condition remains stable following hospital treatment.
This incident highlights the importance of vehicle security measures even during brief absences from cars. Norwegian insurance companies often provide specific guidance about preventing cold-weather thefts while maintaining vehicle operation needs.