MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. (WBFF) — A fatal crash involving a stolen vehicle driven by juveniles occurred Tuesday in Germantown, killing another driver.
Montgomery County Police reported that seven children, aged 12 to 15, were in a stolen sedan when it crashed, resulting in the death of 58-year-old Vance Payne, who was en route to work at the time.
According to police, Payne's family has requested privacy as they mourn the loss of a devoted father and friend. The incident has reignited discussions about youth crime and unsafe driving in Maryland.
Delegate Kathy Szeliga, R-Baltimore County, is urging state officials to initiate a public information campaign to warn youths against stealing vehicles. “This behavior has to stop,” Szeliga stated, calling for action from Governor Wes Moore and other leaders.
This crash is not an isolated incident; earlier this year, a 14-year-old driving a stolen vehicle struck and killed a three-year-old in Baltimore. Additionally, body camera footage showed three teens in a stolen car crashing into a police officer after an attempted break-in.
Residents expressed concerns regarding the rise in juvenile crime, advocating for stronger consequences for offenders. “We need to get parents to take responsibility for their children,” one resident noted.
Szeliga emphasized that tougher penalties are essential, stating, “Juveniles are not afraid to steal a car because there aren't any consequences.” The focus remains on enhancing safety on Maryland roads, particularly for younger drivers.