Suspect Steals a Vehicle with Two Children Still Inside

LOS ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
PRESS RELEASE
Sunday, August 1, 1999

On August 1, 1999 at approximately 2:40 p.m., victim Amelia Manuel was pumping gas into her 1999 Toyota Siena Mini van at the Arco Gas Station located at 1706 South Gaffey Street. A male White or Hispanic, 5’9"-11′, 160-170 lbs., 25-30 years old, with a mustache wearing a brown or tan shirt with a collar and grey shorts approached her vehicle and got into the drivers seat. There were Manuel’s two grandchildren, Timothy and Mathew Herron, ages one and two, strapped in their car seat in the back of her vehicle.

Manuel yelled at the suspect to get out of her van. The suspect opened the van door and pushed her away. The suspect started to drive off and Manuel grabbed hold the driver’s door. The suspect dragged Manuel approximately 40-50 feet before she fell to the street. Witnesses attempted to follow the suspect but lost him in the residential streets in San Pedro.
Approximately 45 minutes later, after a thorough search of the area, patrol officers located Manuel’s van more than a mile from the scene of the crime with the two children still inside. All doors and windows were closed and the children were sweating profusely. Paramedics examined the children and released them to their grandmother. The suspect is still outstanding along with Manuel’s purse and identification.

Any information, please contact the Los Angeles Police Department Harbor Division Detectives at 310-548-7621

For Release 4:00 pm PDT
July , 1999