Child Abandoned on Side of Road After Carjacking, Kidnapper Arrested

A Florida man, Willio Petioma, 35, has been arrested in connection with a carjacking and kidnapping incident in which a child was abandoned on the side of the road. The incident occurred on June 26th, when Petioma allegedly stole a car with a three-year-old girl inside after her mother had exited to exchange information following an accident.

A Florida man has been apprehended after allegedly stealing a car with a child in the backseat and later abandoning her on the side of the road. The suspect, identified as 35-year-old Willio Petioma, was arrested thanks to an anonymous tip. The incident unfolded on June 26th in Oakland Park, when the victims, a mother and her three-year-old daughter, were involved in a car accident with another vehicle.

Child Abandoned on Side of Road After Carjacking, Kidnapper Arrested

As the mother stepped out to exchange details with the other driver, Petioma reportedly entered the driver's seat and drove off with the child still inside. The mother desperately clung to the front passenger door, pleading for her child's safety. However, Petioma continued to drive and eventually dragged her along before she fell to the ground.

Surveillance footage captured the harrowing ordeal, showing Petioma exiting the vehicle with the child in her car seat before leaving her on the sidewalk. Fortunately, a couple of Good Samaritans promptly approached the abandoned child.

Child Abandoned on Side of Road After Carjacking, Kidnapper Arrested

Investigators traced the stolen car and identified Petioma through surveillance video. He was subsequently apprehended on Sunday, June 30th, and booked into the Broward County Sheriff's Office Main Jail.

Petioma faces multiple charges, including kidnapping, carjacking, interfering with custody of a minor, and illegal use of a credit card. He was also arrested on a Palm Beach County warrant for possession of cocaine and resisting an officer.

Child Abandoned on Side of Road After Carjacking, Kidnapper Arrested

The three-year-old girl was reportedly unharmed and safely reunited with her mother. The incident highlights the dangers lurking in everyday situations and serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of vigilance and stranger danger awareness.

Law enforcement officials expressed gratitude for the anonymous tip that led to Petioma's arrest, emphasizing the significance of community involvement in preventing and solving crimes. They also commended the Good Samaritans who promptly assisted the abandoned child.

Child Abandoned on Side of Road After Carjacking, Kidnapper Arrested

As the case progresses through the legal system, the Broward County Sheriff's Office reiterates its commitment to protecting the community and ensuring the safety of all its members.