Police have launched an appeal to trace the person responsible for painting a hyper-realistic tunnel under a bridge after at least one motorist reportedly crashed into the illusion late last week. The bizarre street art, complete with a cartoon-style depiction of a passage through the structure, was painted on the wall of a bridge and was so convincing it tricked a driver into thinking it was an actual route. Officers described the prank as dangerous and reckless, warning that what was intended as a creative visual joke could have led to serious injury or worse. Local residents and social media users were divided in their reaction, with some hailing the artwork as “genius” while others criticised the stunt for the potential harm it posed to unsuspecting drivers and pedestrians. The collision caused only minor damage, but police treated the incident as vandalism and a public safety concern, urging anyone with information to come forward. Authorities say they are reviewing nearby CCTV footage and examining the paint used in the roadside artwork as part of the ongoing investigation. Drivers are being reminded to stay alert on unfamiliar roads, with officials stressing that not all striking visuals are what they seem.

Police have launched an appeal to trace the person responsible for painting a hyper-realistic tunnel under a bridge after at least one motorist reportedly crashed into the illusion late last week. The bizarre street art, complete with a cartoon-style depiction of a passage through the structure, was painted on the wall of a bridge and was so convincing it tricked a driver into thinking it was an actual route. Officers described the prank as dangerous and reckless, warning that what was intended as a creative visual joke could have led to serious injury or worse. Local residents and social media users were divided in their reaction, with some hailing the artwork as “genius” while others criticised the stunt for the potential harm it posed to unsuspecting drivers and pedestrians. The collision caused only minor damage, but police treated the incident as vandalism and a public safety concern, urging anyone with information to come forward. Authorities say they are reviewing nearby CCTV footage and examining the paint used in the roadside artwork as part of the ongoing investigation. Drivers are being reminded to stay alert on unfamiliar roads, with officials stressing that not all striking visuals are what they seem.