Missing Girl, 8, Found Safe After Driving Mom's Car to Target: 'We Did Let Her Finish Her Frappuccino'

Mother and Law Enforcement Thankful for Girl's Safe Return After Surprising Ordeal

An 8-year-old girl from Kentucky is safe at home after she drove her mother's car to a Target store nearly two miles away. The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon when the girl's mother, identified as Jessica Reed, went inside the store to pick up a few items.

Reed left her daughter, identified only as T.J., in the car with the engine running and the air conditioning on. However, T.J. decided to take matters into her own hands and got behind the wheel.

T.J.'s Drive to Target

T.J. drove the car out of the parking lot and onto a busy road. She managed to drive for nearly two miles before she reached the Target store. Once there, she parked the car and went inside the store.

Reed, meanwhile, came out of the store to find her car gone. She immediately called 911 and reported it stolen. Police arrived on the scene and began searching for the car.

Police Find T.J. Safe at Target

About an hour later, police received a call from Target employees who said they had found T.J. inside the store. The girl was unharmed and in good spirits. She told police that she had driven the car to Target because she wanted to get a Frappuccino.

"We did let her finish her Frappuccino," said Reed. "We're just so thankful that she's safe."

Tips for Preventing Similar Incidents

This incident highlights the importance of never leaving children unattended in a car, even for a short period of time. Here are some tips for preventing similar incidents from happening:

• Never leave children unattended in a car, even for a short period of time.
• Always lock your car doors and windows, even when you're inside.
• Keep the keys out of reach of children.
• Teach children about the dangers of playing in or around cars.
• If you see a child unattended in a car, call 911 immediately.