A Paulsboro man is accused of stealing the vehicle Saturday night and crashing it a short time later in Audubon, according to police.
MAGNOLIA -- Authorities are continuing to investigate after a mother left two kids in a running vehicle that was stolen while she was in a liquor store.
A Paulsboro man is accused of stealing the vehicle Saturday night and crashing it a short time later in Audubon, according to police.
The incident occurred around 11:30 p.m. at Colombo Liquors on North White Horse Pike.
The 32-year-old mother parked the SUV at the business and went inside, leaving the engine running, the doors unlocked and kids ages 8 and 10 inside, authorities confirmed.
Police say Christopher Dumas, 38, entered the vehicle and drove off west on the White Horse Pike into Audubon. That's where he collided with another vehicle at Merchant and Hampshire streets, leaving the SUV on its roof.
The children suffered minor scrapes and bruises and were treated and released, according to Magnolia Police Detective Joe Pappalardo. They were returned to their mother that night. Dumas also suffered minor injuries.
Dumas was charged with two counts each of kidnapping and endangering the welfare of a child and theft of a motor vehicle.
Bail hadn't been set as of mid-day Monday.
Magnolia authorities have not ruled out possible charges against the mother, noting that the incident remains under investigation. "She hasn't been charged with anything at this time," Pappalardo said.
Attempts to reach Audubon police for more information about the crash and related charges were unsuccessful Monday.
Matt Gray may be reached at mgray@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @MattGraySJT. Find the South Jersey Times on Facebook.
