URGENT UPDATE: A young teen has allegedly stolen an SUV with four children inside, leading to a dramatic crash in Philadelphia late Thursday night. The incident unfolded around 11 p.m. when the children’s mother briefly left her Honda CR-V running outside the King Laundromat on Castor Avenue in the Oxford Circle neighborhood.
Authorities report that the suspect, believed to be aged 13 to 14 years, seized the opportunity when the vehicle was unattended. “This appears to be a crime of opportunity,” stated Chief Inspector Scott Small of the Philadelphia Police Department. “The suspect likely noticed the running vehicle and acted quickly.”
The situation escalated as the suspect drove the stolen SUV approximately half a mile before crashing into a parked van while attempting to turn onto Comly Street. Witnesses reported seeing the crash and the young suspect fleeing the scene on foot.
Once the suspect became aware that the children were in the vehicle, he abandoned the SUV and ran, leaving the children unharmed. They have since been safely reunited with their mother, who was understandably shaken by the incident.
This alarming theft highlights the critical need for increased awareness regarding vehicle safety, especially with children inside. Police continue to search for the young suspect as the community remains on alert, emphasizing the potential dangers of leaving vehicles running unattended.
As investigators delve deeper into the incident, officials urge parents to avoid leaving children alone in vehicles, even for short periods, to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Keep an eye on this developing story as more details emerge, and stay informed about safety measures to protect families from car thefts.
