Desperate Plea as Car Theft Disrupts Care for Autistic Son in Dublin

A Dublin father is making a heartfelt appeal to car thieves to return his vehicle, a 171 Skoda Octavia, after it was stolen from outside his home in Whitehall last week. The car is essential for providing care for his 23-year-old son, David, who has moderate to severe autism, ADHD, an intellectual disability, and anxiety.

The theft occurred in the early hours of March 14th, 2026, coinciding with the theft of his wife’s handbag and the car keys. “My wife thought I’d moved her handbag when she couldn’t identify it on the Saturday morning and then she noticed the car was gone. That’s when the bottom of our world fell out,” Nolan said, describing the devastating impact of the loss.

Full-Time Carer’s Struggle

Gary Nolan gave up his job with Dublin Bus to become a full-time carer for David, a role that necessitates daily trips to clinical appointments and opportunities for outdoor activities. David’s complex needs require constant attention, and the car provided a crucial link to essential services and a degree of normalcy. Without it, Nolan faces significant challenges in maintaining his son’s routine and well-being.

While community members have offered assistance, including providing transportation to David’s daycare in Edenmore – a 40-minute drive – Nolan is hesitant to accept. He explained he suffers from anxiety and fears damaging someone else’s vehicle. This leaves him increasingly isolated and struggling to manage David’s care effectively.

Impact on David’s Well-being

The disruption to David’s routine is already having a negative impact. Nolan reports that his son has begun exhibiting self-injurious behaviors, such as biting his arm or hitting his head, which is a cause for significant concern.

“He had a routine and even just getting out for a drive was an escape for us. We used to drive him to a social club in Balbriggan or to visit his uncle in Co. Meath. We used the car to bring him to clinical appointments. There was always something to get him to,” Nolan explained.

David is unable to use public transport, especially as some destinations require two buses. He doesn’t understand the concept of theft, repeatedly asking when the man will return the car.

A Plea for Freedom

“It’s been a difficult road over the years and I’m on the verge of my mental health unravelling with everything now,” Nolan stated. “The thieves didn’t just accept a car. They took our life and our freedom and I would ask them to please leave the car somewhere we can find it.”

Anyone who sees a black Skoda Octavia 171 D 16702 is asked to report it to any Garda station. Gardaí confirm they are investigating a burglary at a house in Whitehall, Dublin 9, which occurred at around 3:30 am on March 14th, 2026, and a car was taken from outside the property. Investigations are ongoing.