Deerfield Beach, FL — A 38-year-old woman has been arrested after allegedly trying to kidnap a 5-year-old boy from his grandmother’s SUV at a gas station in Deerfield Beach, telling the stunned grandmother, “I’m taking him. This child is the wrong color to be with this woman.”
Terrifying Attempted Kidnapping at Shell Gas Station
The incident occurred on Tuesday morning at the Shell gas station located at 5 North Federal Highway in Deerfield Beach, according to the Broward County Sheriff’s Office (BSO).
Investigators say the grandmother had pulled over to refuel her white Honda Pilot when the vehicle began smoking, prompting her to seek help from bystanders. While she stood near the driver’s side, she noticed a woman—later identified as Ivanna Nobile, 38—approaching her.
Suspect Claimed Boy Was the ‘Wrong Color’
According to the arrest affidavit obtained by Law&Crime, Nobile handed the grandmother what appeared to be an Argentinian identification card, claiming the person pictured was her aunt. Moments later, she walked toward the passenger side of the SUV and opened the rear door, where the 5-year-old was seated.
Deputies said Nobile then grabbed the boy’s arm and announced, “I’m taking him. This child is the wrong color to be with this woman.”
The grandmother quickly stepped between Nobile and the child, shielding her grandson and screaming for help. Several bystanders at the gas station witnessed the confrontation and rushed to assist.
Witnesses Intervened and Called 911
One witness told deputies she was pumping gas when she heard the grandmother shouting that someone was trying to kidnap her grandson. When the woman looked over, she saw the suspect pulling on the child’s arm.
The grandmother immediately called 911, and deputies arrived at approximately 9:30 a.m. Officers detained Nobile, who allegedly refused to speak with investigators at the scene.
Grandmother Had Custody of Boy Since January
Authorities confirmed that the grandmother has had legal custody of her 5-year-old grandson since January and had never met Nobile prior to the incident.
Fortunately, the child was not injured during the attempted abduction, though the grandmother was described as shaken and emotional.
Suspect in Custody and Facing Multiple Charges
Ivanna Nobile, 38, has been charged with false imprisonment of a child under 13 and burglary, according to Broward County Jail records. Deputies also noted that Nobile had no prior criminal convictions.
She is currently being held for immigration purposes, and additional charges could follow depending on the ongoing investigation.
Community Shocked by Attempted Abduction
The incident has left many in the Deerfield Beach community alarmed, especially given that the alleged kidnapping attempt happened in broad daylight at a busy public location. Authorities are urging parents and guardians to remain alert, even during everyday errands.
The Broward County Sheriff’s Office commended the quick actions of witnesses and first responders for preventing the child’s abduction.
What are your thoughts on this shocking attempted kidnapping in Deerfield Beach? Do you think there should be tougher laws to protect children in public spaces? Share your opinions in the comments below!
