UPDATE: A young teen has allegedly stolen an SUV with four children inside and crashed it in Philadelphia. This alarming incident unfolded around 11 p.m. Thursday when the children’s mother stopped at the King Laundromat on the 6700 block of Castor Avenue in the Oxford Circle area.
Authorities report that the mother left her Honda CR-V running with her children in the back seat. When she returned, the vehicle was gone.
“At this time, this appears to be a crime of opportunity,”
stated Chief Inspector Scott Small of the Philadelphia Police Department. Investigators believe the suspect seized the moment, noticing the unattended vehicle.
The suspect, described as a boy aged between 13 and 14 years old, drove the stolen SUV approximately half a mile before side-swiping a parked van while attempting to turn onto Comly Street. Witnesses reported seeing the crash and the young suspect fleeing on foot.
Upon realizing the presence of the children, the suspect abandoned the vehicle and ran away. Thankfully, the children were quickly reunited with their mother, but the emotional impact of this terrifying experience remains significant.
Police are actively searching for the young suspect. Chief Inspector Small urges the community to be vigilant, stating,
“It only takes a split second for something like this to happen.”
As the investigation continues, authorities emphasize the importance of never leaving children unattended in vehicles, even for short periods. This incident serves as a stark reminder for parents and caregivers about the potential dangers in everyday situations.
Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story unfolds.
