Mother Killed While Trying to Stop Thief from Stealing Car with Son Inside

In a heart-wrenching incident on July 11, 2024, Alexa Stakely, a mother from Perth, was tragically killed while attempting to stop a car thief from stealing her vehicle, which had her six-year-old son asleep inside. The incident occurred in the family’s driveway, drawing widespread attention and sorrow from the community and beyond.

The harrowing event unfolded in the early hours of the morning. According to the police report, Stakely noticed an individual attempting to steal her car. Her son was still inside the vehicle, asleep in the back seat. Acting on instinct and driven by the need to protect her child, Stakely confronted the thief. In the ensuing struggle, she was run over by the car three times as the thief tried to escape.

Emergency services were called immediately. Stakely was rushed to Royal Perth Hospital with critical injuries. Despite the efforts of medical professionals, she succumbed to her injuries later that day. The news of her death has left the local community in shock, mourning the loss of a brave mother who gave her life to protect her child.

The suspect fled the scene on foot after abandoning the vehicle nearby. A massive manhunt ensued, involving numerous police officers who scoured the area. The suspect was apprehended after a 90-minute search in the suburb of Koondoola. The man, whose identity has not been released pending further investigation, was taken into custody and is currently being questioned by homicide detectives​​​​.

Witnesses reported seeing the suspect flee through local parks and backyards, jumping fences in an attempt to evade capture. Police have praised the quick response and coordination of the officers involved in the manhunt, which ultimately led to the suspect’s arrest.

The tragedy has sparked a wave of condolences and support for the Stakely family. Friends and neighbors have described Alexa as a devoted mother and a kind-hearted individual who always put her family first. A makeshift memorial with flowers and notes of sympathy has been set up outside the Stakely home, and a community vigil is planned for the coming days.

The incident has also raised concerns about the safety and security of residential areas in Perth. Local authorities have urged residents to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activity immediately. The police department has committed to increasing patrols in the area to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

As the investigation continues, authorities are piecing together the events leading up to the tragic confrontation. They are appealing to anyone with information about the incident to come forward. The suspect is expected to face multiple charges, including vehicular manslaughter and attempted kidnapping.

The community’s response has been one of unity and support. A fundraising campaign has been launched to assist the Stakely family with funeral expenses and to provide for Alexa’s surviving children. The campaign has already seen a significant outpouring of donations from both local residents and people across the country who have been touched by the story.

This devastating event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that can arise in everyday situations and the unpredictable nature of crime. It also highlights the profound love and bravery of a mother who made the ultimate sacrifice for her child.