A nationwide manhunt is underway after a 12-year-old boy failed to appear in court over allegations that he stole a BMW and dangerously towed a caravan 40 miles along a motorway in North Yorkshire.
The boy, who was just 11 years old at the time of the incident, was due to appear at Harrogate Magistrates’ Court last week to face charges of theft of a motor vehicle, dangerous driving, and handling stolen goods. However, after failing to attend the hearing, an arrest warrant has now been issued and a UK-wide search has begun.
Dramatic Incident Involving Stolen BMW and Caravan
The bizarre incident dates back to March 7, 2024, when a BMW 4×4 with cloned number plates was allegedly stolen from a caravan holiday park near Thirsk, North Yorkshire. The boy is accused of using the vehicle to tow a caravan for over 40 miles along the A1(M) before being apprehended by police.
‘This Is the Moment’ – Police Shocked by Discovery
Police were stunned to find a young boy behind the wheel of the vehicle towing a large caravan, a scene that was captured and shared in footage by North Yorkshire Police. A spokesperson described the incident as “extraordinary and extremely dangerous”, though fortunately no one was injured.
The stolen caravan’s owner, Janine Forth, shared her shock on social media:
“We arrived at the caravan site just as they had hitched it up and were driving away with it. If it hadn’t been for quick thinking and the amazing response from the police, god knows what would have happened.
Court Statement and Ongoing Search
A court spokesperson confirmed:
A juvenile was due to appear before Harrogate Magistrates charged with theft of a motor vehicle of value unknown, driving it dangerously and handling stolen goods, namely a caravan.
The defendant has not attended and an arrest warrant has been issued.”
Public Reaction and Questions Raised
The story has caused widespread astonishment, with many questioning how a child so young could carry out such a crime without being noticed sooner. Others have raised concerns about security at holiday parks and the ease of access to vehicles.
The incident also adds to the growing number of cases involving juvenile offenders engaging in high-risk crimes, prompting renewed debate about youth crime prevention and rehabilitation measures.
Appeal for Information
Police are urging anyone with information on the boy’s whereabouts to come forward immediately. Tips can be reported anonymously via Crimestoppers or by calling 101.
