Ohio Police Say Three Children, Ages 8, 11, and 12, Stole a Car After Watching YouTube Tutorials and Crashed Into a Home
OHIO — Newly released police body-camera footage shows three children, just 8, 11, and 12 years old, being taken into custody after allegedly stealing a vehicle and leading officers on a dangerous high-speed chase through Newburgh Heights before crashing into a residential home. Authorities say the incident unfolded on December 20 and has raised serious concern due to the young ages of the suspects.
Police: Chase Reached Up to 80 mph Before Crash
According to Newburgh Heights Police, officers attempted to stop the stolen vehicle but the juvenile driver accelerated, reaching speeds of 60 to 80 mph through neighborhood streets. The pursuit ended when the car lost control, veered off the roadway, and crashed into the side of a home.
No residents were hurt, and the home sustained only minor exterior damage. Police said the children immediately ran from the scene, prompting a foot chase before officers quickly apprehended all three suspects.
Children Told Officers They Learned How to Steal Cars on YouTube
Investigators say the juveniles admitted that they had learned how to steal the vehicle by watching online tutorials on YouTube. Officers reported that the children appeared to be imitating step-by-step instructions they had seen on social media.
The dramatic body-camera video shows officers locating the children behind a home, handcuffing them, and securing the scene. Police noted that the young ages of the suspects make this case particularly alarming and unusual for the region.
Charges Filed Against Two of the Children
Authorities confirmed that the 11-year-old driver is now charged with:
- Receiving stolen property
- Failure to comply with a police order
Both charges are fourth-degree felonies.
The 12-year-old passenger is also charged with receiving stolen property, while the 8-year-old will not face charges due to age limitations under Ohio law.
After processing, all three children were released to their parents. They are expected to appear in juvenile court in the coming weeks.
Incident Renews Concerns About Online Influence on Youth
Law enforcement officials say the case highlights a growing trend of minors being influenced by online videos that demonstrate illegal activities. Officers stressed that the speed of the chase, combined with the children’s ages, created significant risk to the community. For more verified local and national crime updates, stay connected with SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
