In a bizarre incident that unfolded in Ann Arbor on November 25th, a 12-year-old boy took authorities on a chaotic chase through the city after allegedly stealing a 35,000-pound forklift. The juvenile driver, who reportedly accessed the vehicle from Foursonth Middle School, where it was left unlocked with the key inside, set off a pursuit that saw police driving at speeds of 15 to 20 mph with sirens blaring and emergency lights flashing.
The reckless escapade spanned approximately an hour, during which the young driver is said to have struck about 10 parked vehicles. Finally coming to a stop, the boy was taken into custody and subsequently lodged in a juvenile detention center. Fortunately, no injuries were reported during the pursuit.
The police are treating the incident as an active and ongoing criminal investigation. Preliminary findings suggest that the boy seized the opportunity to take control of the Genie GTH-636 Telehandler after finding it unlocked and with the key conveniently hidden inside at the middle school.
This astonishing episode raises questions about the security protocols surrounding construction vehicles and underscores the need for heightened vigilance, especially when dealing with heavy machinery that can pose significant risks when misused.