Sacramento, CA – A 12-year-old child was arrested Monday morning after taking their parent’s car and leading deputies on a short police chase in south Sacramento, authorities said. The incident resulted in collisions with traffic cones, a parked car, and a patrol vehicle, though fortunately, no one was injured.
Incident Details
According to the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were first called shortly after 7 a.m. when the child drove the car to their former school on Caymus Drive. During the initial drive, the vehicle struck several traffic cones, raising immediate safety concerns.
Deputies later spotted the car and attempted to stop it, but the child fled briefly, leading law enforcement on a short chase through the neighborhood. The vehicle eventually collided with a parked car and a patrol unit before deputies were able to take the juvenile into custody.
Vehicle and Traffic Impact
While the crash caused significant vehicle damage, authorities confirmed to KCRA that no injuries were reported. The sheriff’s office also warned residents to expect traffic delays around Gerber Road and Valley Wood Drive as officers secured the area and removed the vehicle.
Charges and Juvenile Custody
The 12-year-old was taken into custody by deputies. While no serious criminal charges were publicly disclosed, officials emphasized that this incident is a reminder of the dangers of unsupervised access to vehicles. The case will likely be handled in juvenile court, focusing on safety, education, and appropriate consequences.
What Should Parents Do?
Incidents like this highlight the importance of keeping keys and car access secure, especially around preteens and teenagers. Experts recommend:
- Storing car keys in a secure location out of reach of children.
- Educating children about the dangers of driving without a license.
- Monitoring behavior and setting clear rules about vehicle access.
- Installing vehicle locks or alarms that prevent unauthorized use.
Parents are also encouraged to talk openly with children about traffic safety and the potential consequences of reckless driving, including injury, property damage, and legal consequences.
What to Do if You See a Child or Preteen Driving
If a driver appears to be too young to legally operate a vehicle, witnesses should:
- Call 911 immediately and provide the vehicle’s location, description, and direction of travel.
- Avoid attempting to stop the car themselves, as this can be dangerous.
- Keep a safe distance until law enforcement arrives.
- Observe and report any traffic violations or unsafe maneuvers.
Authorities stress that quick action can prevent accidents and save lives, especially in residential neighborhoods or near schools.
Community Safety Reminder
The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office emphasized that while this incident ended without injuries, juvenile driving can pose serious risks to the community. Supervising children, securing vehicles, and reporting unsafe driving are critical steps to maintain neighborhood safety.
Have thoughts on keeping kids safe and preventing underage driving? Share your comments below.
