CALIFORNIA, Md. — Five juveniles were detained after a stolen silver Hyundai Sonata collided with a 2022 Chevrolet Malibu on May 18, 2025, at approximately 4:38 p.m. near MacArthur Boulevard and South Poteat Court, according to the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office. The incident, initially reported as a motor vehicle collision with a possible disturbance, prompted a swift response from deputies.
While en route to the scene, a deputy observed a group of five juveniles—four males and one female—walking away from the area. The driver of the Chevrolet Malibu reported that her vehicle was struck by the Hyundai, after which the five juveniles exited the Sonata and fled on foot. A witness provided a description of the group that matched the individuals seen by the deputy.
Further investigation revealed that the Hyundai Sonata had been reported stolen in Charles County. With assistance from additional deputies, the sheriff’s office located and detained the five juveniles. They were apprehended in a non-custodial manner and released to the custody of a guardian. Due to legal protections, law enforcement is prohibited from publicly identifying juveniles, even when charged as adults, to safeguard their identities throughout the judicial process.
The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation and is seeking additional information from the public. Anyone with details about the incident is encouraged to contact Deputy Thomas Dewey #441 at 301-475-4200, ext. 8132, or by email at Thomas.Dewey@stmarycountymd.gov. Tipsters can also contact Crime Solvers 24/7 at 301-475-3333 or text “Tip239” to 274637 and follow the response instructions to continue the conversation.
The collision occurred in a residential area of California, Maryland, near the intersection of MacArthur Boulevard and South Poteat Court. Authorities have not released details about the extent of damage to either vehicle or whether injuries were reported. The circumstances leading to the crash, including the juveniles’ motives or how they came into possession of the stolen vehicle, remain under investigation.
