A 12-year-old boy in Washington state made headlines recently when he was arrested for stealing his grandfather’s car and driving it approximately 160 miles across the state. The incident began when police in Issaquah alerted the Grant County Sheriff’s Office that the boy had taken the car and was believed to be heading towards Grant County.
The boy, who has ties to Moses Lake in Grant County, was eventually located by the Sheriff’s Motor Traffic Unit parked on Lowry Street in the Larson Community in Moses Lake. When deputies approached, the boy fled in the car, leading to a brief pursuit that ended when a deputy performed a PIT maneuver near Randolph Road and State Route 17 to stop the vehicle.
Following the incident, the 12-year-old was taken into custody and booked into the Chelan County Juvenile Justice Center on charges of possession of a stolen vehicle and felony eluding. Fortunately, no one was injured during the incident and the vehicle only sustained minimal damage, according to the sheriff’s office.
This case serves as a reminder of the importance of securing vehicles and keeping keys out of reach of children, especially when it comes to young individuals who may not fully understand the consequences of their actions. It also highlights the quick response and coordinated efforts of law enforcement agencies in tracking down the boy and ensuring the safety of all involved.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to have conversations with children about the dangers of unauthorized vehicle use and the importance of making responsible choices. By promoting open communication and setting clear expectations, similar incidents can potentially be prevented in the future.
