News Summary
Detroit police are probing an auto theft incident that involved a child left alone in a vehicle. The incident occurred in the 18600 block of Freeland when a parent briefly stepped away, returning to find both the car and child missing. Fortunately, the child was safely returned shortly afterward. The police are appealing for witnesses to come forward as they work to identify the suspect responsible for this alarming act of child endangerment.
Detroit – Detroit police are investigating a troubling incident involving an auto theft that occurred on Wednesday afternoon, which involved a child left inside the vehicle. The event took place at approximately 1:20 p.m. in the 18600 block of Freeland. A parent had briefly left their child alone in a white Ford Escape while they entered a building. Upon returning, the parent found the car missing, along with their child.
Fortunately, the child was safely returned shortly after the incident. Witnesses report that the suspect who stole the Ford Escape dropped the child off at a location just a short distance away. Authorities confirmed that the child was unharmed during the chaotic episode.
The Ford Escape in question was reported to have a license plate that appeared to be from Kentucky, which may assist authorities in tracking down the suspect involved in this alarming theft. However, as of Wednesday evening, police have not released any detailed information about the suspect.
The Detroit Police Department has acknowledged the seriousness of the incident and is currently gathering evidence to identify the person responsible for the theft and child endangerment. The department is urging anyone who might have witnessed the theft or has information regarding the incident to come forward to assist in their investigation.
This incident serves as a grim reminder of the potential dangers of leaving children unattended in vehicles, even for a short period. The quick recovery of the child is a relief for the community, as many parents recognize the importance of ensuring their children’s safety while on the go. Local residents have expressed their shock over the event, underlining the need for vigilance in protecting children from similar situations in the future.
Detroit police continue to investigate the scene and are expected to provide further updates as new information becomes available. The circumstances around the swift recovery of the child and the identity of the suspect remain a key focus for law enforcement.
This incident has raised community awareness regarding child safety in vehicles. Authorities remind parents to never leave children unattended in cars, even for short errands, as such situations can lead to dire consequences. The police investigation is ongoing, and updates will follow as more details are uncovered.
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HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Fox 2 Detroit
- Wikipedia: Child Safety in Vehicles
- WXYZ
- Google Search: Child Theft Safety
- Click on Detroit
- Google Scholar: Children Left Unattended in Vehicles
- Detroit Free Press
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Auto Theft

Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.