by Mt. Juliet, Tennessee – A shocking incident unfolded at W.A. Wright Elementary School on Friday, Nov. 14, when a 10-year-old child drove home alone following an argument with his mother. The unusual case prompted a police response and ultimately led to the child’s father being taken into custody.
Young Child Takes Wheel After Disagreement
According to the Mt. Juliet Police Department, officers responded to an emergency call from the school reporting a child in a stolen vehicle. Around 1 p.m. local time, the child’s mother had left her son inside her running car to drop off paperwork. When she returned, both the car and her child were missing.
Police noted that a witness reported the vehicle had backed out recklessly, nearly hit another car, jumped a curb, and sped off toward Lebanon Road.
Surveillance footage confirmed that no one else had entered the vehicle, leading authorities to conclude that the 10-year-old had taken the car on his own.
Vehicle Found Safely at Home
Moments later, officers located the vehicle parked inside an open garage at the family’s home, about a mile from Wright Elementary. The child was found at home with his father, who appeared confused about why his son had arrived without his mother.
When questioned, the child admitted to driving home after having a “disagreement” with his mom. Fortunately, the child was found safe and unharmed.
Father Taken Into Custody
During the investigation, police discovered that the boy’s father had an outstanding warrant for alleged “theft of property — wire fraud”. He was taken into custody without incident.
The family members have not been publicly identified, and the case has drawn attention to both child safety and vehicle security on school grounds.
Schools and Law Enforcement Respond
The Wilson County Sheriff’s Office took over the investigation as the incident occurred on Wilson County School property.
Mt. Juliet Police Chief Tyler Chandler praised the quick response:
“I’m incredibly thankful that the child was found safe and unharmed. This incident is a clear example of the strong partnership we have with Wilson County Schools and SROs. That close collaboration ensures any incident at one of our area schools receives a rapid, coordinated response that prioritizes the safety and well-being of every child.”
The school district sent a message to families emphasizing vehicle safety:
“Families, we do offer a friendly reminder to please be mindful of your vehicles when entering campus, and the occupants inside, especially when a vehicle has its engine running and parked. The absolute safest practice for campus visits is to park your vehicle in a designated visitor parking space, turn off the vehicle, lock your doors, and take any children that are with you inside the building.”
Legal Outcome for the Child
The Wilson County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that no charges would be pursued against the 10-year-old due to his age. However, authorities have made a referral to the Department of Children’s Services to ensure the child receives appropriate support.
Community Reaction
The incident has sparked discussions about child safety, parental supervision, and school security measures. Parents and community members are being urged to remain vigilant and ensure that children are never left unattended in running vehicles.
Join the Conversation: What steps do you think schools and parents should take to prevent incidents like this? Comment below and share your thoughts on child safety in Tennessee schools.
