Local

Grandmother credits prayer and police for grandson's safe return

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A busy place like a gas station no longer feels safe for Alice Stewart and her grandson David.

"When I finished pumping gas I took cash out of my purse and walked around the corner, got him a drink and a candy bar, came back around the corner and the car was gone," said Stewart.

She left her car door unlocked and the engine running with the belief that her grandson would be fine because she was just a few feet away.

"The lady at the pump next to me realized I was looking for my car and told me that some man had gotten in it and driven off," said Stewart.

Panicked and waiting for police, she said she started talking to God.

Less than 30 minutes later, Officer Charlie Mays found David walking along Beach Boulevard and brought the boy back to his grandmother.

"He was crying when the policemen picked him up," she said.

Latest News Headlines from Action News

David wasn't harmed, just shaken up.

We wanted to know if the suspect spoke to David while they were together.

"The suspect told him that he was sorry, not to worry, stay calm and be cool. 'I'm gonna let you go I'm not gonna hurt you,', " said Stewart.

The suspect kept his word and ditched the car.

Almost 12 hours later, James Meyer was found breaking into a San Marco home.

I spoke with the victim off camera, who said she heard her window shatter and called 911.

Police were there minutes later and matched the photo of Meyer to the burglar, who was still wearing the same clothes from earlier, according to police.

"He obviously knows the police are looking for him, so to continue on being so visible and desperate, I don't know what to think," said Stewart.

For Action News on the go, sign up for Action News Mobile & Email alerts

0