Police looking for carjacker who stole an SUV with children inside

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – A harrowing incident unfolded in northwest Miami-Dade when a car thief made off with a vehicle, unaware that two young children were inside. The unsettling event occurred on a seemingly ordinary afternoon and has since sparked a search for the perpetrator, as well as a renewed call for vigilance among parents and guardians.

The white Mitsubishi was reported stolen from the 7100 block of Northwest 50th Street after the children’s mother briefly stepped away, leaving her two-year-old son and six-year-old daughter in the car. The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office swiftly issued an alert, mobilizing law enforcement in the area.

Fortunately, the stolen vehicle was discovered abandoned approximately a mile from the original theft location. A vigilant officer from Virginia Gardens found the car near Northwest 74th Avenue and 47th Street. Upon inspection, the officer was relieved to find the children unharmed in the back seat, though the suspect had fled the scene.

This incident, while concluding without physical harm to the children, serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with leaving a vehicle unattended, especially with the engine running and young passengers inside. Authorities are urging parents to exercise caution and ensure the safety of their children at all times.

The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate, seeking any leads that could identify the individual responsible for the theft. The incident occurred around 4:30 p.m., and investigators are appealing to the public for information. Anyone who witnessed the theft or has knowledge of the suspect’s identity is encouraged to contact Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS.

As the search for the suspect continues, the community is reminded of the importance of remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious activities. This incident highlights the need for increased awareness and proactive safety measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

The swift response from law enforcement, coupled with the cooperation of the public, underscores the importance of community involvement in maintaining safety and security. While this event had a fortunate outcome, it serves as a crucial lesson in preventing potential tragedies.