A 21‑year‑old man was taken into custody in New Castle County after he called police to recover personal items from a stolen Hyundai Sonata that had been towed away.
The Theft Unfolds
On Tuesday morning at about 9:30 a.m., a Hyundai Sonata parked along Fairway Road in Newark, Delaware, was stolen. The victim had started the vehicle to warm it up, left it unattended with the keys inside, and returned to find it gone. Officials said the theft was discovered when the victim returned to the parking spot.
Police Receive a Call
The following day, Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at roughly 11:45 a.m., the New Castle County Regional Communications Center received a call from Kayonne Baxter, 21. In the call, Baxter admitted to police that he had stolen the Sonata and that it had been towed by a towing company to another location. Baxter requested police assistance to locate his personal belongings that remained inside the vehicle.
Rapid Response
After receiving the call, officers responded to Fairway Road. They located the stolen vehicle at a nearby towing company and apprehended Baxter without incident. The vehicle was recovered intact, and Baxter’s personal items were still inside.
Recovery of the Vehicle
Police confirmed that the Hyundai Sonata was successfully retrieved from the towing company. The recovery included all personal belongings that Baxter had left behind. Officials emphasized that the vehicle was still in the possession of the towing company when it was seized.
Charges and Court Proceedings
Baxter was charged with theft of a motor vehicle. He was arraigned and released pending an upcoming court hearing. The arraignment was conducted by local authorities in accordance with standard procedure for theft cases.
Law Enforcement Perspective
Police officials described the incident as a straightforward case of vehicle theft followed by an unusual plea for assistance. They noted that the call from Baxter was the first time a suspect had requested help in retrieving items from a stolen vehicle.
Community Impact
The theft and subsequent arrest highlighted the importance of securing vehicles, especially when keys are left inside. Local residents were reminded to remain vigilant and to report suspicious activity promptly.
Legal Context
The theft of a motor vehicle is a serious offense in Delaware, carrying potential penalties that include fines and imprisonment. The case serves as a reminder of the legal consequences of vehicle theft.
Police Procedure
The officers followed standard investigative protocols: verifying the claim, locating the vehicle, and securing the suspect. They ensured that no evidence was compromised during the recovery.
Timeline of Events
- Tuesday, 9:30 a.m.: Hyundai Sonata stolen.
- Wednesday, 11:45 a.m.: Baxter calls police.
- Wednesday afternoon: Police recover vehicle and arrest Baxter.
- Subsequent: Baxter arraigned and released.
Key Takeaways
- The Hyundai Sonata was stolen on Tuesday and recovered the next day.
- Kayonne Baxter, 21, admitted to the theft and sought police help to retrieve belongings.
- Baxter was charged with theft of a motor vehicle and released pending court.
Closing Remarks
The incident underscores the need for vigilance in vehicle security and the effectiveness of prompt police response. Local authorities remain committed to enforcing the law and protecting community members.
About the Authorities
The New Castle County Regional Communications Center handled the call and coordinated the arrest. The towing company that recovered the vehicle cooperated fully with police investigations.
Future Developments
The case will be heard in court at a future date. Local law enforcement will continue to monitor the situation and enforce relevant statutes.
Contact Information
Residents with information about vehicle theft or related incidents are encouraged to contact the New Castle County Police Department. Calls can be made to the regional communications center for immediate assistance.
