A robbery investigation is underway after a man targeted a security guard outside a Tesco Express and then left his getaway van burning in a residential street.
The incident occurred outside Tesco Express on Princess Drive, Dovecot, at around 9am today (Friday). Merseyside Police received reports that a man had grabbed a cash box off the guard during a cash-in-transit delivery.
The suspect was described as dressed all in black, wearing a baseball cap and with his face covered. He then fled the scene in a white transit van. Police received reports a short while later that a van was on fire on Snowberry Road, by the corner of Croxdale Road, and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service attended to put out the flames.
READ MORE: EncroChat dad 'WoodenJay' caught after sending pictures of new baby
Witnesses reported hearing an "explosion" from the van and pictures showed heavy smoke in the area this morning, and later forensic investigators at the scene.
An empty cash box was found a short distance from the van. Merseyside Police said its officers have been conducting CCTV and witness enquiries in the area.
Chief Inspector Rob Ross said: "We are in the early stages of the investigation and are keen to speak to anyone who may have seen the incident so would ask them to please get in touch.
"If you live in the area or were driving past at the time, please check your CCTV or dashcam footage for anything that might help with the investigation. The smallest detail could be the key to finding those responsible and removing them from the streets."
Anyone with information is asked to contact @MerPolCC or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 with reference 231 of April 7.
READ NEXT:
First look inside former Beehive pub after major rebrand
The 24 most wanted men in the UK as police issue 'do not approach' warning
Social care worker had 'relationship' with teenage boy in her care
Woman's windows rattled after hearing 'two explosions' from home
Killer who tried to burn cousin's body appeals murder conviction seven years later
