Posted on the 28th October 2025 in PHTM News
STOLEN TAXI LEAVES TRAIL OF DESTRUCTION ACROSS NORTH DEVON AFTER DRIVER THREATENED
A stolen taxi in North Devon was involved in multiple crashes, leaving a trail of destruction after the driver was threatened in Bideford. Devon and Cornwall Police are now appealing for witnesses and relevant footage.
The incident began around 4.15pm on Sunday, October 26, in the Geneva Court area of Bideford, following a report that a white Ford Mondeo taxi had been stolen.
Police said the taxi driver had picked up two men from Westward Ho and dropped them at Geneva Court.
After promising payment, the men entered a property but "never returned." When the driver knocked on the door, he "was threatened." His vehicle was then stolen and "driven away at speed," colliding with other vehicles as it left the scene.
The stolen taxi was later involved in a second collision with two other vehicles near Rakeham Hill on the A386, between Bideford and Torrington.
Officers responding to the crash arrested a man in his 30s from the Bideford area on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle, dangerous driving, and drink driving.
Enquiries are ongoing to locate a second suspect believed to have been travelling in the stolen taxi.
A spokesperson for Number 6 Taxis confirmed the incident and emphasised the driver's safety: "We’re deeply saddened to share that one of our drivers was involved in an incident earlier today, which resulted in their vehicle being stolen and later involved in a collision.
"Thankfully, our driver is now safe, and we’re cooperating fully with the police as they investigate."
The company stressed the criminal nature of the attack: "We want to make it absolutely clear — this was a criminal act against our driver, not a reflection of our team or how our business is run."
They thanked the community for its support and vowed to "bring those responsible to justice and ensure this never happens again."
Police are urging anyone who saw the taxi during the events, or who has relevant dash-cam, CCTV or mobile phone footage, to contact them via 101 or their website, quoting reference 50250277004.
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