Tragic Carjacking Ends in Mother's Death, Child Abandoned

Alexa Stakely, a mother of one, died after attempting to stop carjackers from driving away with her sleeping son. The child was later found unharmed, but the suspects remain at large.

In a shocking incident that highlights the dangers of leaving children unattended in vehicles, a 29-year-old mother in Ohio died in a carjacking after confronting the thieves. Alexa Stakely was picking up her 6-year-old son from his babysitter when she put him in a car seat and went inside to retrieve some of his belongings.

Upon returning to her vehicle, Stakely was horrified to find a stranger in the driver's seat. Desperate to protect her son, she attempted to stop the thief by jumping on the hood. However, the carjacker hit the gas, throwing Stakely onto the pavement and causing fatal head injuries.

Tragic Carjacking Ends in Mother's Death, Child Abandoned

The stolen vehicle, a 2022 Honda SUV, was later found abandoned nearby. The child, who was asleep in the back seat at the time of the carjacking, was unharmed. Police are currently searching for two male suspects who were seen running away from the scene.

Stakely, a single mother who worked as a speech-language therapist, was described as a devoted parent and a dedicated professional. Her death has sent shockwaves through her community and beyond.

Tragic Carjacking Ends in Mother's Death, Child Abandoned

The tragic incident is not an isolated case. According to Kids and Car Safety, an advocacy group, there have been 56 reported incidents in the United States so far in 2024 involving a child left alone in a car that was later stolen.

Amber Rollins, director of Kids and Car Safety, warns parents never to leave their children or pets unattended in a vehicle, regardless of age. She urges drivers to always lock their doors and never leave keys in the ignition.

Tragic Carjacking Ends in Mother's Death, Child Abandoned

Businesses that offer drive-thru and curbside service can provide an added layer of safety for parents, as they do not require them to exit their vehicles. Rollins encourages parents to call businesses upon arrival to request curbside delivery, especially if they have young children.

The death of Alexa Stakely and the abandonment of her child serve as a grim reminder of the importance of vigilance and safety precautions when it comes to securing vehicles and protecting children. Law enforcement continues to investigate the incident and urges anyone with information on the suspects to come forward.

Tragic Carjacking Ends in Mother's Death, Child Abandoned