MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. (WBFF) — A fatal crash involving a stolen vehicle driven by juveniles occurred Tuesday in Germantown, resulting in one death.
Montgomery County Police reported that seven children, aged 12 to 15, were in the stolen sedan when it collided with another vehicle, claiming the life of 58-year-old Vance Payne, who was en route to work at the time. Authorities confirmed that the crash has raised concerns surrounding youth crime and dangerous driving in the area.
In a family statement, Payne's relatives requested privacy as they cope with the loss, describing him as a devoted father and friend.
Delegate Kathy Szeliga, R-Baltimore County, is advocating for a public information campaign to deter youth from engaging in crimes involving stolen vehicles, urging state leaders to communicate that such behavior will not be tolerated.
This incident is part of a broader issue as previous cases have seen juveniles involved in fatal accidents while driving stolen cars. In June, a 14-year-old was responsible for the death of a three-year-old in Baltimore. Furthermore, police earlier released body camera footage of three teens crashing a stolen vehicle into an officer post-break-in, with two already on ankle monitors for prior offenses.
Local residents expressed the need for stronger repercussions for juvenile offenders. “Parents must take responsibility and restrict their children's access to car keys,” one said, reflecting growing apprehension about juvenile driving behavior in the community.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident, and the road remains closed as they conduct their inquiries. Further updates will follow as information becomes available.