Lakewood Gas Station Video Shows Attempted Carjacking with Baby Inside

Good Samaritans intervened to help save the baby as the suspect fled the scene.

Feb. 23, 2026 at 2:03am

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Disturbing video footage captured the moment a suspect, identified as Ryan Campbell, attempted to carjack a woman's vehicle while her baby was inside at a Lakewood, California gas station. The suspect approached the woman as she was pumping gas, but was unable to drive away as the woman's keys were not in the vehicle. Good Samaritans stepped in to help save the baby as the suspect fled the scene. Authorities have arrested Campbell, who is known to be a troublemaker in the area with a history of similar incidents.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the dangers that can occur at gas stations and the importance of remaining vigilant and taking safety precautions. The video also showcases the heroic actions of bystanders who intervened to protect the vulnerable child involved.

The details

The video shows the suspect, Ryan Campbell, approaching the woman as she was pumping gas and attempting to carjack her vehicle with the baby inside. Despite the woman's keys not being in the car, Campbell still tried to get into the driver's seat before fleeing on foot as Good Samaritans rushed to help. Authorities say this was not the first time Campbell has been involved in a similar incident at a gas station in the area.

  • The incident occurred on February 9, 2026 at a Chevron gas station across from the Long Beach Town Center in Lakewood, California.

The players

Ryan Campbell

A known troublemaker in the Lakewood area who has been involved in previous similar incidents at local gas stations.

Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department

The law enforcement agency that responded to the incident, arrested the suspect, and is continuing to investigate the case.

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What’s next

The judge will determine whether to grant bail for Ryan Campbell at his upcoming court hearing.

The takeaway

This disturbing incident serves as a reminder for all drivers to be vigilant and take safety precautions when pumping gas, especially when children are present in the vehicle. The heroic actions of the Good Samaritans who intervened highlight the importance of community members looking out for one another.