The Great Smoky Mountain Journal
Tuesday, January 01, 2019 03:04 PM
Knox Man Trying To Steal Car Leaves Two-Year Old Behind In Auto When Caught In Act
Investigators said Bradley Lee was trying to hot wire the car after he ran out of gas and left his truck near Maryville Pike and Rudder Road around 6:00 a.m. Monday.
KCSO said he broke into a car parked in the driveway of 2904 Walmar Drive and removed the ignition switch. According to investigators, the owner yelled and causing Lee to run.
When officers showed up they found the child asleep in the back seat. KCSO said Lee returned to the scene several hours later to check on his son and that's when he was arrested.
Deputies said they also found his truck and discovered a gun stolen from Florida.
Lee is a convicted felon and is charged with possession of a handgun, attempted theft, vandalism, and auto burglary. Other charges are pending. Bond is set at $13,000.
The Department of Children’s Services is investigating as well as the Knox County Sheriff’s Office.