LEONARDTOWN, MD — A stolen Kia Carnival minivan was recovered in Lexington Park on March 30, 2026, after a citizen tip about suspicious activity led St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office deputies to the vehicle and four juveniles who had just exited it.
The incident began on Sunday, March 29, when victims reported the Kia Carnival missing from outside their residence in Lexington Park. Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to the theft complaint that day.
On Monday, March 30, a concerned citizen called in suspicious activity on Old Missouri Street in Lexington Park. Deputies arrived quickly and located the reported stolen vehicle. Witnesses told deputies that four individuals had exited the minivan moments earlier.
Investigators identified and located the suspects. Three juveniles — ages 15, 16 and 17 — were taken into custody and charged with unlawful taking of a motor vehicle and theft of property valued between $25,000 and $100,000. They were released to their guardians following processing. A fourth juvenile was not charged.
Maryland law prohibits public identification of juveniles in such cases, so their names were not released.
The recovery marks another instance of quick action by local law enforcement and community members in addressing vehicle thefts in St. Mary’s County. The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office handled the investigation and arrests. No injuries or additional property damage were reported in connection with the recovery.
This case highlights ongoing concerns with vehicle thefts involving juveniles in Southern Maryland, where prompt citizen reports and deputy response have led to successful recoveries. Authorities remind residents to secure vehicles and report suspicious activity immediately to help prevent and solve such crimes.
The charges reflect the value of the stolen property and the nature of the unlawful taking. Court proceedings for the juveniles will move through the juvenile justice system.
Southern Maryland residents have seen several vehicle-related incidents in recent weeks, though this specific Kia Carnival case was resolved without a high-speed pursuit or crash.
Deputies continue to investigate any connections or additional details, though no further information was released as of March 31.
Residents in Lexington Park and surrounding areas are encouraged to remain vigilant, lock vehicles, and use anti-theft devices. The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office has not issued additional alerts tied to this incident but stresses community partnership in keeping neighborhoods safe.
This recovery demonstrates effective coordination between citizens and law enforcement in St. Mary’s County, leading to the return of the vehicle and accountability for the involved juveniles.
