10-year-old driver arrested, 12-year-old at large after crashing stolen car

Baltimore, MD (WBFF) — A 10-year-old was arrested after crashing a stolen car into a stop sign and fire hydrant in east Baltimore, the Baltimore City Sheriff’s Office confirmed.

The incident occurred on April 29 at the intersection of East 23rd Street and Barclay Street around 7 a.m.

According to Sheriff Sam Cogen, a deputy in the area witnessed a Hyundai Elantra run a stop sign and initiated a traffic stop.

The Sheriff said the driver failed to stop for the deputy and instead took off, later crashing about a half mile away.

According to the Sheriff both the driver and the passenger ran from the crashed car.

The driver was arrested and later determined to be 10 years old.

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The 12-year-old passenger has not yet been apprehended.

The deputy also determined the car had been reported stolen days prior, in Parkville.

Sheriff Cogen released the following statement:

“This incident is deeply concerning, not just because a stolen vehicle was involved, but because a 10-year-old child was behind the wheel. 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.

Our deputies responded quickly and professionally to stop a dangerous situation and protect the public. But moments like this also remind us that enforcement alone cannot be the only answer. When children this young are becoming involved in criminal activity, it is a sign that intervention, mentorship, and support are critically needed.

The Baltimore City Sheriff’s Office remains committed to working not only as a law enforcement agency, but as a community partner focused on prevention and opportunity. Later this year, our Office will launch a juvenile diversion pilot program in partnership with the SPCA and BARCS that will allow young people to complete community service while working with and caring for animals. We believe programs like this can help create accountability, build empathy, and provide positive structure for youth who need guidance and support.

Public safety is about more than arrests—it’s about investing in pathways that keep young people from entering the criminal justice system in the first place.”