Why -and how- are my target vehicles destroyed during Thefts?

[Alehazar]

During the Vehicle Theft Missions, when I reach the designated area but still don't see the flashing target icon, I get a message that the target vehicle was destroyed? How? And why?
If I'm driving the target vehicle and my poor driving skills make me careen off a freeway into the river below, sure, then I can understand that the target vehicle was destroyed. But when I'm nowhere near it? That seems a tad odd.
Re-acquiring the mission in the Saints Book is what I need to do, to continue towards my goal, but it is annoying.
Is there a cure or remedy -other than a large dose of patience?
Or am I the only unfortunate one?

 

[[V] IdolNinja]

It happened a lot to me too when you don't reach a unique target in time. The trick is to remember exactly where it is and go directly there when you enter the district.

 

[Voit-Shao]

I often use plenty of RC Possessor shots to get these vehicles. Using the RC gun doesn't give you a notoriety and guards near the vehicle just ignore the fact that the vehicle drives by itself.