Child, Dog Left Behind In Victim's Car After Unsuccessful Auto Theft: LAPD

LOS ANGELES, CA — Authorities are asking for the public's help identifying a child and dog who were left behind during an unsuccessful auto theft earlier this week.

Officers responded to the area of Avenue 52 near Monte Vista Street in Highland Park Sunday just before 10 a.m., where a man reported that another man had tried to steal his vehicle before fleeing on foot, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.

"The victim then observed that an approximately 2-year-old child and a dog were left behind in (his) vehicle," police said.

Police were unable to locate the suspect after searching the area.

The child, who has not been identified, was placed in the custody of the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services, police said.

"Efforts to identify the child through all available means have been unsuccessful, and no custodial parent of family member has contacted the police to locate the child," police said.

The boy is described as having a medium complexion and curly brown hair. He was wearing a light gray quarter-zip sweater.

The dog "appeared familiar with the child" and was placed in the care of LA County Animal Services.

Anyone with information regarding the child, his family, or the attempted theft is urged to contact the LAPD Northeast Division at 323-561-3211, Detective Ryan Lamar at 39284@lapd.online, or 877-527-3247 during non-business hours. The DCFS hotline can be reached at 800-540-4000.

Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers online or at 800-222-8477.