As we go about our daily routines, we often take for granted the safety of mundane activities, like popping into local supermarkets for our weekly shop.

However, a chilling incident at a car park served as a stark reminder that danger can lurk in the most unexpected places.

Leeann Heffernen experienced every shopper's nightmare when she returned to her car to find a timber block with nails placed under her tyre.

The unsettling event unfolded when Heffernen approached her vehicle parked near a trolley bay.

A glint of light from her phone made her notice the potential hazard, averting what could have been a damaging and possibly dangerous situation.

'It definitely makes me feel a little more cautious and reluctant to walk down there alone,' Leeann shared.

Haylee Heffernan shared the timber block with nails used in an attempt to flatten her mum's tyres. Image Credit: Facebook/Haylee Heffernan

This 'scary' discovery sparked an urgent warning to remain vigilant in public spaces.

Haylee Heffernan, Leeann's daughter, expressed her fear about the situation and shared photos of the block on social media.

'Obviously, someone has nothing better to do. How disappointing,' Haylee wrote.

'It's quite scary to think that it might have been a targeted attack or set up for particular people, knowing they would be stuck on the side of the road at night.'

'We have heard of multiple break-ins in the area; however, this is the first time we have heard of this particular style,' she added.

Other locals also shared similar stories, suggesting a pattern of criminal activity aimed at unsuspecting car park users.

'Basically, people in car parks put that brick with the nails under people's car tyres so that when you run over it, the tyre pops,' one commented on Haylee's post.

'Then these people come and offer assistance and rob you.'

In response to this alarming incident, the Camden Police Area Command issued a public warning and urged locals to be cautious.

'These were placed under the wheels of a vehicle parked in a shopping centre car park in the Tahmoor area. If you find any items such as this, please call Narellan Police Station,' the warning read.

The police also shared Haylee's photos of the wooden block, emphasising the importance of reporting such suspicious items.

It's essential to remain alert and cautious, especially when alone in car parks or other less populated areas.

Here are some tips to help you stay safe in public:

• Always be aware of your surroundings and any unusual objects or activities.
• Park in well-lit areas whenever possible.
• Inspect the area around your tyres and under your car before driving away.
• Keep your phone handy in case of emergencies.
• If you feel uneasy, don't hesitate to ask a security guard or store employee to escort you to your car.
• Report any suspicious items or behaviour to the authorities immediately.

NSW Police encouraged anyone with information related to the incident to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.

Key Takeaways

• A woman discovered a maliciously placed timber block with nails under her tyre in a Woolworths car park.
• The incident prompted a warning from Camden Police to the public to be vigilant.
• The daughter of the woman who found the object shared the photo on social media to warn others and suggested it could be part of a scheme to rob people.
• The NSW Police encouraged anyone with information about the incident to contact Crime Stoppers for prevention.

Have you seen any suspicious items in your local car park recently? Please share your experiences and safety tips with us in the comments below.

 

[Oaklegs]

Many thanks for this warning and I am sure that most readers will now check the tyres before driving away from a car park.

 

[Jo Piper3]

Very scary situation. I always check my tyres before I drive anywhere.

 

[DLHM]

Checking tyres could lead to another nasty scenario. Some unscrupulous person could be given the opportunity to grab and/or do harm to the person checking their tyres.

 

[David567]

Another trick is to jam a plastic bottle in the wheel arch so when you drive it makes a noise. You get out, leaving the car running and the criminal jumps in and takes off with you car, If this happens, do not stop until you are somewhere safe and always turn the engine off and remove the keys or key fob when you exit the vehicle.