Driver on the run as car used to mow down police officer found

A car used to mow down a police officer in North Ayrshire has been recovered by detectives.

The driver is still on the run following the attempted murder, which happened in Eglinton Place, Kilwinning, at around 1.30am on Tuesday.

Two uniformed officers were on their way to assist colleagues with an inquiry when a blue Ford Focus was deliberately driven at one of them.

The 28-year-old female officer was struck by the car. She sustained serious leg injuries and was taken to University Hospital Crosshouse for surgery, where she remains.

The driver fled the scene, but the Focus – with the registration EJ62 YFL – was later found at around 3.15pm on Tuesday at the rear of Baidland Avenue in Dalry.

Extensive enquiries are ongoing to trace the suspect, who is believed to have escaped in a dark saloon vehicle.

Detective inspector Stephen McCulloch said: “This was a very serious incident, which has left the victim requiring surgery, and we are continuing to provide support to the officer, her family and colleagues.

“We have managed to trace the vehicle involved, however it remains absolutely critical that anyone with information which could help us identify and find the suspect comes forward.

“We are appealing to any road users who were in the surrounding area in the early hours of Tuesday morning, and may have seen the Ford Focus or a dark saloon vehicle driving at speed, to please get in touch.

“In particular we would urge any motorists with dashcams, who were travelling through at the time, to check their footage in case they have managed to capture either of these vehicles or anything else which could be of significance.”

If you have any information, call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.