Thief Removes Ashes Before Stealing Audi After Hayling Island Break-In
Police are hunting burglars who smashed their way into a Hayling Island home before making off with a £30,000 Audi – but not before removing a precious urn of ashes from the stolen car.
Bag Snatched and Audi Quattro S3 Taken
The break-in happened on South Road between 10:30pm on Monday, April 18, and 6:05am the next morning. Thieves smashed glass on the rear door and grabbed a handbag from inside. They also swiped a set of car keys left on the kitchen table.
Using those keys, the burglars drove off in an electric blue Audi Quattro S3, registration starting HV16, parked on the driveway. The sleek, almost brand-new vehicle is hard to miss.
Ashes Removed, But Left Behind
Shockingly, the thieves took the time to remove an urn containing the ashes of the 60-year-old victim’s late mother from the Audi. The ashes were later found carefully placed outside the back door, suggesting the culprit may have returned after the initial robbery.
“We’d like to speak to anyone who may have seen the Audi since yesterday morning,” said investigating officer DC Jamie Fagan. “Its distinctive colour and near new condition should make it stand out.”
Police Issue Crime Prevention Tips
Officers urge locals to be vigilant and follow these top security tips:
- Close all windows before leaving your home, even in summer, to stop easy access.
- Lock all front and rear doors, especially UPVC doors with multi-point locks—lift the handle and use the key.
- Keep car and house keys out of sight and away from windows or letterboxes; thieves can hook them through gaps.
- Use timer switches for lights or radios to make your home look occupied when out late in the evening.
- Lock side gates to block access to the rear of properties.
- Store ladders and garden tools securely in sheds to avoid their misuse in burglaries.
- Install an intruder alarm system with visible external alarm boxes and consider security lighting.
- Use door chains and spyholes for extra protection when answering the door, and don’t hesitate to turn strangers away.
- Report any suspicious visitors or activity to the police immediately.
RMS Number: 44160147401
