Los Angeles police are asking for the public’s help to identify a 2-year-old boy who was found alone following an attempted car theft.
According to the Los Angeles Police Department, officers responded Sunday, Dec. 28, to a report of an attempted vehicle theft in the Highland Park neighborhood. The car’s owner told police he spotted an unidentified man trying to steal his vehicle before the suspect fled on foot.
When the owner checked inside the car, he discovered a young child and a dog. Officers searched the area but were unable to locate the suspect.
The child was taken into the care of the Department of Children and Family Services after efforts to identify him were unsuccessful. Authorities said no parent or family member has contacted police to report the child missing.
“The child is male, with a medium complexion and curly brown hair,” police said. He was wearing a light gray quarter-zip sweater at the time he was found.
Police also noted that the dog, now in the custody of Los Angeles County Animal Services, appeared to be familiar with the child. Investigators did not say whether they believe the child is related to the unidentified suspect.
Anyone with information that could help identify the child or locate his family is urged to contact the LAPD Northeast Division Watch Commander at 323-561-3211 or email Det. Ryan Lamar at 39284@lapd.online. Information can also be shared with the Department of Children and Family Services hotline at 1-800-540-4000.
