KENNER, La. — Authorities in Louisiana have shared new details about a frightening situation involving a child and a stolen vehicle, emphasizing how quick thinking helped prevent a tragedy. According to police, a 10-year-old boy is safe after managing to escape from an SUV that had been taken without permission on Monday afternoon.
The events unfolded shortly before 2 p.m. in Kenner, where officers say an individual later identified by authorities as a 36-year-old man arrived in the parking area of a local business. Investigators reported that the man had been driving a Chevrolet Malibu that law enforcement agencies believe was previously taken in another jurisdiction. After stopping in the lot, he allegedly exited that car and approached a different SUV — a Nissan Rogue — that had been left idling.
Police said the Rogue belonged to a local resident who had briefly stepped away, unaware that someone would attempt to take the vehicle. Inside the SUV was the owner’s 10-year-old child. Officers said the man entered the running vehicle and began driving away with the child still inside, prompting immediate concern.
According to investigators, the young passenger reacted with remarkable presence of mind. Realizing the danger, the child managed to unlock the door and get out of the moving SUV, reaching safety before the situation escalated. Authorities said the boy was not harmed and quickly received assistance.
The SUV itself could not be immediately recovered, but officers said they were able to follow its location because of a cellphone belonging to the child that had remained inside the vehicle. Using this information, law enforcement personnel tracked the Rogue to a business in the Metairie area.
When officers arrived at that location, they said they found the suspect attempting to get into another vehicle belonging to the business. Police took him into custody without further incident.
Following the arrest, the Kenner Police Department announced that the man faced several charges related to the vehicle theft and the child being inside at the time. Authorities also noted that additional charges may be filed in connection with activity that occurred after the SUV was recovered, with those matters expected to be handled by another local agency.
Throughout the incident, officers emphasized that the child’s ability to remain calm and get to safety played a major role in preventing injuries. Officials publicly praised the boy’s quick response and courage during an extremely stressful situation.
In sharing the details, the police department also issued a reminder to the public about vehicle safety. Officers strongly encouraged drivers not to leave cars running and unoccupied, even for a moment, especially when children are inside. They noted that many vehicle-related crimes occur when cars are left unattended and unlocked, creating opportunities for them to be taken unexpectedly.
Community members expressed relief after learning the child was unharmed, and police reiterated their appreciation for the teamwork between multiple law enforcement agencies that helped bring the situation to a quick resolution.
Authorities have not released further information about the suspect’s background or potential motives, saying the investigation remains ongoing. Officers added that once all reports are completed, the case will be forwarded for review by the appropriate judicial offices.
This incident has served as a powerful reminder of the importance of vehicle security and situational awareness, as well as an example of how swift, calm action can make a life-changing difference. The department continued to encourage residents to remain alert, keep vehicles secured, and take extra care when children are present.
