An eight-year-old girl took her family’s car for a joyride to a Target store, ultimately causing damage but thankfully not injuring anyone. The girl was located shopping inside a Target in Bainbridge, Ohio, by local police, who then safely returned her home.
The Bedford Police shared the unusual incident on social media, humorously noting they had found “a woman who’s in more of a hurry to shop at Target than my wife.” They reported that she took her mother’s car early in the morning to visit the store.
Though it remains unclear what she purchased or if she used her Target app for discounts, police confirmed she was allowed to finish her Frappuccino during the encounter. The girl was reported missing the previous morning along with the family’s Nissan Rogue. Shortly thereafter, authorities received calls about a car being driven erratically, with a child seemingly behind the wheel.
Justin Kimery, who witnessed the scene on his way to work, recorded the event on his dashcam. He initially thought the driver might be under the influence or facing a medical issue, noting he had difficulty seeing the driver. Despite trying to signal her to slow down, she continued on her path and appeared distracted.
Reports indicate the child drove for over 10 miles within a span of 20 to 25 minutes and admitted to hitting a mailbox during her journey. Authorities determined that the girl is too young to be charged with any crime.