Man uses tracker inside car to lead cops to alleged thief

A man inadvertently lost his car keys at a bar, resulting in the theft of his vehicle. Fortunately, his car was equipped with a tracker, which provided crucial leads for the police to apprehend the suspect. This highlights the importance of vehicle security measures.

The incident occurred at approximately 12:15 AM today at a bar located at the intersection of Main North Road and Grand Junction Road in Blair Athol, a suburb of Adelaide. The man accidentally left his car keys inside the bar. Bar staff witnessed another man pick up the keys, leave the bar, and drive off in the black Nissan X-Trail. This emphasizes the need for vigilance in public places.

Police stated that after discovering his vehicle was stolen, the owner immediately used the in-car tracker to locate its position and provided police with real-time movement information. According to a police statement, "The Nissan entered the city center, then returned north, passing through North Adelaide and eventually reaching Prospect Road." This quick action significantly aided the police in their pursuit.

Police further added, "At the time, the police helicopter had already taken off, tracking the car as it traveled west, passing through Woodville North and Ottoway, before heading onto the Port River Expressway, making a large loop of Parafield, Para Vista and eventually returning to Holden Hill. The police helicopter guided ground patrols to Vale Avenue in Holden Hill, where the Nissan stopped and the driver exited the vehicle." The coordinated effort between air and ground units proved vital in the apprehension.

Police subsequently arrested a 36-year-old man from Kilburn at the scene. He has been charged with illegal use of a motor vehicle and driving without due care, and has been granted bail to appear in the Adelaide Magistrates Court on May 2. This arrest serves as a deterrent to potential car thieves.