A suspected burglar ended up in hospital after he is believed to have crashed a car stolen during a break-in in Hollingdean.
The 18-year-old was found near the silver Audi 4 convertible which was crashed into a brick pillar in Ditchling Road, Brighton, and then rebounded into a lamp post.
He was taken from the junction of Friar Road to the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton where he was treated for injuries consistent with a car crash.
The crash happened shortly before 5.30am on Saturday (15 January).
Detective Sergeant Jackie Shaw said: “The car crashed in Ditchling Road has been identified as being stolen during a burglary from a home in Lynchet Close.
“A full investigation is under way in order ascertain exactly what has happened, identify those involved and achieve a successful outcome for all concerned.”
She said that the youth was “lucky to have walked away from this crash alive” adding that he was not only a danger to himself but to others.
East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service attended the scene of the collision.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Sussex Police on 0845 6070999 or to call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.