7:35 am, January 14, 2026
Police have launched an investigation after thieves smashed their way into a family-run car dealership in order to steal a trio of premium used vehicles
Officers say that a BMW X5, Mercedes E53 and Volkswagen Golf R were all swiped from SMT Automotive in Marsworth on the evening of December 16.
While the BMW and Mercedes have both since been recovered with false plates, the hunt for the limestone grey Golf remains ongoing.
Bosses at the dealership say they have been left ‘devastated’ by the incident, which has cost the firm more than £100,000.
The break-in was witnessed by company director Ricky Thakrar, who watched it unfold on his phone after the showroom’s alarm system was triggered.
The footage he saw showed yobs in hoodies and masks smashing through showroom doors before damaging stock and making off with three cars.
Writing about the incident on social media, the dealership said: ‘We are a family-run business, built from the ground up with years of hard work, long days, and the support of our staff, customers, friends and family.
‘To arrive and find our showroom broken into and cars stolen was absolutely devastating.’
Meanwhile, Thakrar paid tribute to how staff reacted to the shocking state of affairs. He added: ‘Our team at SMT Automotive were incredible – staff came in at short notice to help clear glass, move vehicles, secure what we could, and try to make the site safe again.’
Following the incident, which took place at around 9pm on December 16, police are asking anyone with information to come forward.
A Thames Valley Police spokesperson said: ‘On December 16, around 9pm, we received a report of a burglary at a business premises in Lower End, Tring.
‘Three vehicles were stolen and two have been recovered by officers. We are still looking for a grey Golf R which has not yet been located.
‘Our investigation continues and we ask anyone with any information to please contact us online or via 101 quoting reference 43250638664.’
