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A horrifying carjacking in rural Texas ended with a 7-month-old infant left alone on the shoulder of State Highway 21 near Navasota, authorities confirmed Wednesday.
The 36-year-old mother pulled over around 11:10 a.m. after a 51-year-old man flagged her down, appearing to need help. According to the Grimes County Sheriff's Office, the woman got out of her Chevrolet Malibu, but the man immediately grabbed her keys and forced her away. During the struggle, the baby was still strapped in the back seat. The suspect then sped off with the vehicle, leaving the mother with minor scrapes.
A passing motorist spotted the crying infant on the roadside less than half a mile from the scene and called 911. The baby was unharmed and quickly reunited with the mother, who was treated at a local hospital for minor injuries.
Deputies found the stolen Malibu abandoned in dense brush about 12 miles away. The suspect was arrested hours later at a truck stop on Interstate 45. He has been charged with carjacking, child stealing, unlawful assault, and violating bail conditions from a prior theft case. He remains held without bond and is scheduled to appear before the Grimes County District Court on December 2.
Child safety experts say this incident underscores a dangerous blind spot for drivers. "Never get out of your car to assist a stranger in a remote area, no matter how desperate they appear," warns Jessica Reynolds, a national road safety educator with Mothers Against Dangerous Driving. "Call 911 instead. Your safety—and your child’s—comes before roadside chivalry."
Carjackings have surged 32% in the U.S. over the past two years, according to FBI data, with rural highways increasingly targeted. Law enforcement urges drivers to stay locked in their vehicles and keep moving if they feel unsafe.
The mother, whose name has not been released, is recovering at home. She told investigators she now fears any emergency stop. Her family has started a GoFundMe to cover medical costs and lost wages.
“She did what any good person would do, and it nearly cost her everything,” said a neighbor. “We’re just grateful the baby is safe.”
Authorities ask anyone with additional information to contact the Grimes County Sheriff's Office at 936-873-2100.
Updated daily news: November 21, 2025
