In Atlanta, a child was found safe after a carjacker stole a car with her still asleep in the back seat. Footage of the terrifying incident was shared by local police on Facebook as a stern warning for parents who leave their children alone in a running car. 

 “‘One minute’ can change everything,” read the caption. “Even if you’re stepping away briefly, turn the car off, take your keys, and take your child with you every time.”

According to police, the car was taken just before 5:45 p.m. on Dec. 16, 2025, after the child’s mom left the vehicle running outside of a store, while she ran in to grab a few items. When she walked back outside, the vehicle — and her daughter — were gone.  She immediately called the police for help.

A short while later, officers found the girl in the car, which was abandoned at a nearby apartment complex. Body camera footage captured the moment as it unfolded. “She's about eight years old,” said an officer over the radio. “She just woke up. The car's occupied just with her inside."

The girl was not physically harmed and could be heard telling officers, “I’m good” after they opened the car door and asked if she was okay. “Where’s mom?” the officer asked.

Moments later, the video cuts to bodycam footage showing the child’s mother, who is visibly stressed. Describing what happened. "I went in for one minute, got what I needed, walked out, and my car was gone. I didn't know where to look…I just called the police," she said.

No serious injuries were reported in the case.

The footage was released to the public as a public service announcement on Jan. 10. "I want to talk to you about a serious and preventable issue, leaving young children unattended inside running vehicles,” said Atlanta Police Department spokesperson, Sgt. Tasheena Brown in the video.” Even if you're only stepping away for a moment, a running vehicle can quickly become an easy target for thieves."

She also encouraged anyone who sees a child alone in a running vehicle to call 911 immediately. The incident struck a nerve online, especially with parents who juggle quick errands and packed schedules, and have a habit of leaving their child in a seemingly safe environment.