A London, Ontario dealership says it is thankful one of its employees is alive after a brazen car theft last week.

Sport Motors says a man came into the dealership on Oxford St. last Wednesday evening to look at a 2018 BMW M4.

The salesperson turned on the vehicle after the man asked to hear the engine. Once inside the car, the dealership says the man told their employee he had to make a phone call.

“He was given the privacy to call, our sales rep stood close by in front of the vehicle,” said the dealership in a Facebook post.

London police say the man put the car into gear and accelerated in the direction of the salesperson, who jumped on the hood of the car.

Police say the employee held onto the vehicle for some time, sliding off the hood as the vehicle approached Highbury Ave.

The victim was taken to hospital to be treated for minor injuries.

Police say the suspect arrived at the dealership in a silver Audi.

The stolen vehicle is a 2018 Black BMW M4, with red leather interior and dealer plate 084DRX.

“It is unfortunate that thieves nowadays are capable of such action. To be confident enough to steal a vehicle in broad daylight with no fear of killing someone in the process,” said the dealership.

“They succeeded in their plan and they were not caught.”