L.A. car thief abandoned toddler, dog at crime scene; no one has claimed them, officials say

"Around 10 a.m., a man with a 2-year-old boy and a dog tried to steal a car in the 300 block of North Avenue 52 before running off, leaving both the child and the pet behind, police said. The victim reported that an unidentified man tried to steal his vehicle but fled on foot. Officers searched the area for the suspect but didn't find anyone. The thief abandoned the boy inside the vehicle, officials said, and the dog was found outside."

"Workers with the Department of Children and Family Services took custody of the child, who has yet to be identified. The dog, who appeared to be familiar with the child, was placed in the care of Los Angeles County Animal Services. According to authorities, efforts to identify the child have been unsuccessful, and no custodial parent or family member has contacted the police to locate him."

A toddler was left inside a vehicle in Highland Park after a man attempted to steal the car and fled around 10 a.m. The incident occurred on the 300 block of North Avenue 52 and involved a man carrying the 2-year-old and a dog. The victim reported the attempted theft and officers searched the area but did not find the suspect. The child was taken into custody by the Department of Children and Family Services and remains unidentified. The dog was placed with Los Angeles County Animal Services. Authorities say no family contact has been made and request tips at [phone], [e-mail], or [phone].

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