Louisiana Boy, 10, Escapes Unharmed After Suspect Steals SUV With Him Inside, Police Say
LOUISIANA — Police say a 10-year-old boy survived a terrifying ordeal after leaping from a moving SUV that had been stolen with him still inside. The suspect, identified as Mackenzie Switzer, is now facing multiple charges including carjacking and simple kidnapping, according to authorities.
How the Incident Began
According to the Kenner Police Department, the situation unfolded earlier this week when Switzer arrived at a local business in a stolen Chevy Malibu reported missing from New Orleans.
Officers said the suspect then abandoned the Malibu and quickly jumped into a running Nissan Rogue parked in the same lot — a vehicle that still had a 10-year-old child in the back seat.
Police said Switzer drove eastbound on Veterans Blvd. with the child still inside.
Child Jumps From Moving Vehicle to Escape
While the SUV was still moving, the child managed to open the door and jump out, landing safely and escaping without injury, police confirmed.
The boy’s cellphone, which remained inside the stolen vehicle, allowed officers to track the Rogue in real time.
Where Police Found the Suspect
Investigators later located the stolen SUV at a Metairie car dealership, where officers said they found Switzer attempting to access another vehicle on the lot.
He was taken into custody without incident.
Charges the Suspect Now Faces
Switzer is now charged with:
- Illegal possession of stolen things (related to the New Orleans-based vehicle)
- Carjacking
- Simple kidnapping
- Multiple traffic violations
Official Statement From Police
Police emphasized their relief that the child was not harmed.
“We are incredibly grateful that this child is safe and uninjured,” the department said in a statement.
They also noted that the case highlights an important safety reminder:
Never leave a running vehicle unattended, especially with children inside.
Community Reaction
Residents expressed both shock and relief following the arrest. Many praised the child’s quick thinking and the officers’ fast response in tracking the stolen SUV.
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