The Toyota Yaris was reported stolen from a Brown St address about 11.45am on Sunday.

Just 45 minutes later, Armidale police spotted the stolen vehicle in Brogan St and attempted to pull it over, but a pursuit was launched when it failed to stop.

The pursuit lasted a short time before it was called off for safety reasons.

About 1.20pm, the vehicle was seen parked in a car park at the Girraween Shopping Centre with a male in the driver’s seat.

When approached by an employee of the pizza business, the man fled the scene and was last seen jumping a fence in Niagara St.

Police are investigating and are looking for a man described as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander in appearance, with a thin build and about 160cm tall.

He was last seen wearing grey tracksuit pants and a black hooded jacket with a blue hood, and was also carrying a black backpack with a green logo.

Inspector Chris McKinnon confirmed nothing was stolen from the vehicle, but police were seeking help to try and identify the man.

Anyone who spotted the vehicle being driven around the time of the pursuit, or who saw the man flee the car, is urged to contact Armidale police.