Appeal following attempted ATM theft at Aintree Hospital

Detectives are appealing for information following a suspected attempted ATM theft at a hospital in the early hours of this morning, Sunday 18 August.

At around 3.15am, security at Aintree Hospital, Lower Lane, reported that a Renault Scenic car, black and blue in colour, had driven into a rear door at the location, before driving off. Damage was caused to the door but nobody was injured and no items stolen.

A black BMW Sport and a blue Ford Fiesta were also involved in the incident. Four males were sighted at the scene, all wearing face coverings. One male, also the driver of the BMW, was holding what could have been a handgun.

The Renault Scenic was used to take the ATM from the building, however, the car received extensive damage and the ATM was abandoned. The Ford Fiesta was also abandoned in the grounds of the hospital. The BMW drove off at speed heading towards the East Lancs Road.

Forensic and CCTV enquiries are ongoing and we are appealing to anyone with information to come forward.

Chief Inspector Kevin Chatterton said: “This was a failed attempt to ram the premises and steal the ATM machine, which is a reckless thing to do. Thankfully, this attempt was unsuccessful and caused no injuries.

"We take attempts like this seriously and we are determined to find those responsible and put them before the courts. The potential for serious injury and damage is clear, so help us remove these people from the streets.

“If you saw a black BMW making off at speed in the area in the early hours, or if you have dashcam which may have captured something, let us know. A black BMW vehicle may have appeared in your street this morning, which could be vital in our investigation. Let us know and we will take action on all information provided.”

Anyone with information can contact @MerpolCC, call 101 with reference 0172, or you can call @CrimestoppersUK anonymously on 0800 555 111.