Victoria Police are calling for public assistance to identify a man involved in the theft of a vehicle in Shepparton last week — an incident made more alarming after the offender discovered a sleeping toddler inside and left the child in a cardboard box before fleeing.
The Shepparton Divisional Response Unit says the red Volkswagen was stolen from a supermarket carpark on Maude Street just before 2 pm on 14 November.
According to police, the victim briefly ran inside the store while the child slept in the back seat. Moments later, an unknown man allegedly seized the opportunity, got into the vehicle and reversed out of the carpark.
It is believed the offender only realised a baby was inside after driving a short distance. He then removed the toddler from the car and placed the child in a box in the carpark before driving off.
When the mother returned, she immediately found the child and raised the alarm.
The stolen car was found abandoned the next day in Mooroopna.
Police have now released CCTV footage and still images of a man they believe may be able to assist with the investigation.
He is described as:
- Aged 20s to 30s
- 165cm tall
- Slim build
- Wearing a backwards black cap
- Navy headphones
- Blue Golden State Warriors basketball singlet
- Black shorts
- Light blue runners
- Black wrist sweatbands on both wrists
Investigators are urging anyone who recognises the man or has information about the incident to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
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