13-year-old caught driving stolen car in Towson sparks concern

TOWSON, Md. (WBFF) — A 13-year-old was arrested after police say he drove a stolen car during the morning commute in Towson, drawing concern from community members about youth crime and parental accountability.

The arrest happened around 8 a.m. Thursday near York and Dunvale Roads, close to Cunningham’s Cafe, where workers and residents noticed a strong police presence.

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Lara at Cunningham’s Cafe saw police vehicles quickly fill the area.

“There was about like five cop cars surrounding a vehicle. It was like a red Honda and it was on top of the hill that is like it’s right near our like loading dock area,” she said.

That’s such like a Maryland thing for someone to do, like a 13-year-old boy. Oh my goodness. That’s like, honestly, I’m not even shocked with the parents nowadays,” she continued.

The Baltimore County Police confirmed that officers arrested a 13-year-old and recovered the stolen vehicle. The teenager was placed with the Department of Juvenile Services.

In Towson, questions have grown louder about how children so young wind up in these situations. Looking for solutions, one person mentioned the positive impact of having a mentor.

“I had a mentor and he kept me out of trouble and I think the kids need to know that why, maybe sports is a big thing that’s really good. It keeps them grounded and stuff,” he said.

Other voices in the community stressed the need for involvement before children get in trouble.

“I think it’s crazy. I don’t know what’s going on with the children these days. Y’all need to stay in school. Parents, y’all needs to tighten up on your children because this young age group is just young and reckless,” another resident said.

Police have not released further information about the stolen vehicle or the 13-year-old.

The case has left Towson residents pressing for stronger action to prevent similar situations in the future.