10-Year-Old Detained After Crashing Stolen Car In Baltimore: Police

BALTIMORE, MD — A 10-year-old child was taken into custody on Wednesday after authorities said he crashed a stolen car into a stop sign.

Baltimore City Sheriff Sam Cogen told WBAL-TV that the incident occurred on Wednesday. Cogen said deputies were serving warrants in East Baltimore when they noticed a Hyundai Elantra run through a stop sign.

Cogen said the deputies followed the car until it crashed into a stop sign and a fire hydrant near East 23rd and Barclay streets.

The child and a 12-year-old passenger exited the car and tried to run from police, WBAL reported, but the 10-year-old was detained and taken into custody.

Cogen addressed the incident in a statement sent to Patch.

"This incident is deeply concerning, not just because a stolen vehicle was involved, but because a 10-year-old child was behind the wheel," Cogen said. "Thankfully, no one was seriously injured today, because this situation could have easily ended in tragedy for the child, his passenger, our deputies, or innocent members of the community."

Cogen also encouraged the community to help provide guidance and support to children.

"When children this young are becoming involved in criminal activity, it is a sign that intervention, mentorship and support are critically needed," Cogen said.