At a Glance
- A car was stolen in Atlanta on Dec. 16, 2025, with an eight-year-old girl asleep inside.
- The mother had left the vehicle running while she entered a store “for literally one minute.”
- Officers located the abandoned car and the child, who told them, “I’m good.”
- Why it matters: Police warn that running cars invite thieves in seconds and urge parents to take children whenever they exit a vehicle.
Atlanta Police released body-camera footage showing the moment officers discovered an eight-year-old girl alone inside a stolen car, emphasizing how quickly a running, unattended vehicle can be taken.
The Theft
Just before 5:45 p.m. on December 16, 2025, officers responded to a report of a stolen car in Atlanta. The vehicle had been left running with the child asleep in the back seat while the driver went into a nearby store.
In the video, posted to Facebook on January 10, an officer narrates:
- “She’s about eight years old. She just woke up.”
- “The car’s occupied just with her inside.”
- The door handle was partially removed, indicating someone had forced entry and driven away.
Mother’s Account
A woman believed to be the child’s mother arrived shortly after police found the car. Body-cam audio captures her explanation:
- “I went in the store right there for literally one minute.”
- She claimed glass storefront windows allowed her to watch the car.
- “I went in for one minute, got what I needed, walked out, and my car was gone.”
She told the officer she “didn’t know where to look” and immediately called 911.
Police Warning
Atlanta Police Department spokesperson Sergeant Tasheena Brown used the incident to highlight preventable dangers. In the released clip she states:
- “Even if you’re only stepping away for a moment, a running vehicle can quickly become an easy target for thieves.”
- “In just seconds, someone can get inside and drive off, sometimes with the child still inside.”
Brown, identifying herself as both an officer and a mother, urged:
- Turn the engine off.
- Take the keys.
- Take the child every time you leave the car.
She asked the public to call 911 if they spot a child alone in a running vehicle, adding, “Let’s work together to protect our children and prevent tragedies before they happen.”
Aftermath
The child appeared unharmed and was heard on camera reassuring officers, “I’m good.” Police have not announced any arrests and did not respond to additional questions from News Of Losangeles.
Key Takeaways
- Thieves can steal a running car in under a minute.
- Leaving a child inside, even briefly, creates risk of abduction or injury.
- Police recommend turning the car off and taking children with you, no matter how quick the errand.
- Witnesses who see kids alone in vehicles should call 911 immediately.
The incident remains under investigation.
