Florida Tow Truck Driver Accused of Towing Car With 4-Year-Old Child Still Inside; Girl Injured After Jumping From Moving Vehicle

FLORIDA — A shocking incident in Florida has sparked outrage after security footage captured a tow truck driver towing away a car with a 4-year-old child still inside, according to authorities. The frightening scene unfolded outside a restaurant earlier this week, when the child’s father noticed his vehicle being hooked up to a tow truck just moments after stepping inside to pick up food.

According to ABC7 News Bay Area, the father rushed outside and frantically yelled to the driver that his young daughter was still in the car. However, the tow truck driver allegedly ignored the man’s pleas and continued driving off with the vehicle.

Terrifying Moment Caught on Camera

Video surveillance from nearby businesses shows the tow truck pulling away as the father tries to flag the driver down. Witnesses told police that the driver did not stop despite multiple shouts from the man warning that a child was inside the car.

Authorities say the 4-year-old girl, terrified and confused, managed to open the door and jump from the moving vehicle moments later. The child suffered minor injuries, including scrapes and bruises, but was treated at the scene and is expected to make a full recovery.

Father’s Desperate Pleas Ignored

Investigators said the father had left the child inside the car briefly while picking up a to-go order from a nearby restaurant. He saw the tow truck driver beginning to remove the car from the parking lot and sprinted outside to intervene.

“He was yelling that his daughter was still in the car, but the driver didn’t stop,” one witness told investigators.

Authorities said the tow truck continued several yards before the child jumped out, prompting bystanders to rush over and help.

Police Investigation Underway

Local law enforcement is now investigating the tow company and driver, who could face charges of negligence and endangering the welfare of a minor.

Officials have not yet released the name of the tow driver, but they confirmed that the incident was captured clearly on surveillance footage. Police are reviewing whether the driver violated any towing protocols that require operators to visually check vehicles for occupants before towing. The towing company has not commented publicly on the incident.

Community Reaction

The case has sparked public outrage in the Florida community, with many residents demanding stricter rules and accountability for private tow truck operators. Parents online have expressed disbelief over the driver’s actions, calling for the suspension of his towing license.

“It’s every parent’s nightmare,” one local resident said. “That driver had multiple chances to stop but chose not to. It’s unacceptable.”

Child Recovering at Home

Officials confirmed that the little girl has been reunited with her family and is recovering at home. The father has cooperated fully with police as the investigation continues. Authorities say charges could be announced in the coming days once the full report is completed. Stay informed with updates on public safety and crime investigations at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.