Suspect Steals Van With Child Inside At Providence Hospital

PORTLAND, Ore. — A child was inside a van that was stolen from Providence Hospital in Northeast Portland on Thursday morning.

Security called police after the suspect took off in the vehicle as the child’s father was helping his wife with a wheelchair just after 7:45.

“The suspect jumped into the minivan that was still running and in a split second just took off and drove away,” said Portland Police Sergeant Kevin Allen.

Dozens of officers swarmed the area.  Within an hour, the 6-year-old girl was recovered safe at Southeast 54th and Mitchell.

“The men and women of the Police Bureau have once again shown their dedication, commitment, and their hearts for serving this community.  Your officers found this scared little girl safely within the hour, and it’s just another example of the great work our officers do on a daily basis,” said Portland Police East Precinct Commander Erica Hurley.

26-year-old Colton Suckow was arrested at the location where he asked to be dropped off by a taxi.  He had just been released from the hospital after a police hold.  Suckow has been charged with kidnapping and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle.