A one-year-old boy was found safe early Tuesday after his mother’s car was stolen in Philadelphia’s East Falls neighborhood, with the child inside, authorities said.
Police responded to the theft in the 3400 block of Henry Avenue just after 11 p.m. on Monday, where the mother had briefly stepped out of the vehicle while the child remained inside. The car contained a tracking device, which led officers to the 4000 block of Parkside Avenue in West Philadelphia, where the vehicle was later found abandoned.
The child was not in the car seat when police arrived, according to Philadelphia Police Chief Inspector Scott Small. Investigators believe the thief, who did not realize the child was inside, removed the boy from the car seat and left him on a nearby sidewalk approximately one block from the theft location.
The boy’s grandparents located him unharmed about half an hour later, sitting on the curb. Police are reviewing surveillance footage, collecting fingerprints, and gathering DNA evidence from the car as part of their investigation.
Key Details:
- Location of theft: 3400 block of Henry Avenue, East Falls, Philadelphia.
- Time of theft: Approximately 11 p.m. on Monday.
- Recovery location: 4000 block of Parkside Avenue, West Philadelphia.
- Child’s condition: Unharmed.
- Investigation status: Active, with evidence being processed.
Police have not yet identified a suspect and urge anyone with information to come forward.