A woman in Florida is facing serious charges after stealing a pregnant mother’s car while she was at a car wash. The incident not only left the car owner in shock, but it also led to a crash that caused significant damage.
The suspect, Chanel Aisha Anderson, has been arrested and is now facing multiple charges. The case has sparked concern, especially given the impact it had on the pregnant mother and her family.
Details of the Incident
On July 7, 2025, Chanel Aisha Anderson, 33, allegedly stole a white Hyundai Sonata while the car owner, Hellen Mendez, was cleaning the vehicle’s mats at Big Dan’s Car Wash in Kissimmee, Florida. The vehicle was running as Mendez was just a few feet away from it when Anderson jumped in and drove off at high speed.
Witnesses reported seeing Anderson driving recklessly through the car wash area, nearly hitting several people. In the process, she caused over $20,000 worth of damage to the facility.
The Crash and Arrest
While searching for the stolen vehicle, a police officer saw a white Hyundai Sonata matching the description of Mendez’s stolen car. The officer followed the vehicle and saw it collide with a gas tanker truck and then crash into a light pole.
The officer attempted to arrest Anderson, who allegedly showed aggressive behavior. After a confrontation, the officer used a Taser to subdue Anderson with the help of other law enforcement officers.
Impact on the Victim
Mendez, a single mother who is also pregnant, was devastated by the theft. She shared her emotional and physical toll with local media, explaining that the incident left her feeling violated and fearful.
Mendez, who was carrying diapers in her car at the time, also described the difficulty of finding shards of glass mixed with the items she was trying to salvage after the crash. With her third child on the way, Mendez set up a GoFundMe to help cover the financial hardship caused by the incident.
Legal Charges and Consequences
Anderson is facing serious charges, including grand theft auto, criminal mischief, and resisting arrest without violence. She is being held at Osceola County Jail with a $5,000 bond. As part of her conditions, she has been ordered not to contact the victim.
This shocking crime highlights the distressing effects of reckless behavior, especially on vulnerable individuals such as pregnant women and families. Chanel Aisha Anderson’s actions have left a pregnant mother struggling to recover emotionally and financially.
The community has rallied around Mendez, showing support through fundraising efforts to help her through this challenging time. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of safety, respect, and the profound impact that one person’s reckless choices can have on others.
