Carjackers steal running vehicle with young girl in backseat in Queens
- A mother in Queens left her car running with her 4-year-old daughter inside while she went to a laundromat.
- Two men took advantage of the situation, stealing the vehicle with the child still in the backseat.
- The child and vehicle were found unharmed by police a few hours later, but the carjackers are still at large.
In South Richmond Hill, Queens, New York City, a disturbing incident occurred on Friday afternoon when a mother left her vehicle running while she ran an errand at a laundromat. The vehicle, a red 2023 Acura Integra, was left with her 4-year-old daughter strapped in the backseat, drawing the attention of two opportunistic carjackers. They jumped into the running car and drove off with the young girl still in the backseat. Fortunately, the incident was resolved within a few hours, as authorities located both the girl and the vehicle unharmed later that evening. Police found them on 101st Avenue and Sanders Place just after 7 p.m., ensuring the child was safe and unharmed. EMTs assessed her on the scene, and she did not require medical treatment, appearing relatively unbothered by the distressing situation. Upon being reunited with her mother, who showed signs of both relief and distress, the young girl even smiled for photographers and embraced a police officer, emphasizing her safety. Unfortunately, the two culprits responsible for this crime remain at large, and police are actively investigating the situation. The incident highlights a worrying trend in the city, as this was the second carjacking involving a child within a short period. Just the day before, a father had his car stolen with his 7-year-old son inside while he momentarily stepped away. The boy was located unharmed soon after, showcasing both the dangers of leaving vehicles unattended and the need for heightened awareness regarding child safety in urban settings.