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Kia and Hyundai cars had a bad rap for thefts following the “Kia Challenge” and the actions of the “Kia Boyz.” However, even with fixes in place, a modern Kia isn’t immune to theft. In fact, four young criminals stole a Kia Sorento SUV and took a joyride before crashing it into a fast-food establishment. Moreover, the young ages of the teenage car thieves meant that the passengers received citations instead of serious consequences for their actions. 

Four teenage car thieves who stole a Kia Sorento and crashed it into a Modesto McDonald’s got citations from the police

In 2021 and 2022, young car thieves targeted Kia and Hyundai vehicles with viral videos depicting quick, easy thefts. The so-called “Kia Boyz” or “Real Kia Boyz” published the videos out of the Milwaukee and Columbus areas, resulting in a tremendous increase in the brands’ theft figures. 

More disturbingly, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that thefts resulted in many crashes and at least eight fatalities. Fortunately, a software upgrade decreased theft claims among the updated vehicles by 53%, per CBS News. Still, updates can only do so much to protect the cars from thefts. 

According to The Ceres Courier, four teenagers between the ages of 13 and 16 stole a Kia Sorento and took it for a joy ride. However, after the Kia SUV was reported stolen, a Cerese Police Department officer located and followed the young car thieves. After driving the Kia with a police tail for some distance, the 16-year-old driver attempted to flee from the cops.

However, the first police officer had requested support before initiating the chase. As a result, a helicopter unit tracked the reckless young driver without police officers getting too close. Unfortunately, the young driver lost control while attempting a turn at an intersection. He crashed into a McDonald’s fast-food restaurant.

Consequently, the young joyriders attempted to flee on foot. However, police officers apprehended all four teenage car thieves. The three passengers received “citations for resisting arrest.” However, police booked the 16-year-old driver into a juvenile hall for his actions behind the wheel.

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Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman joined the MotorBiscuit team as an Autos Writer in 2022. An admitted petrolhead and an avid motorcyclist, Erik has owned everything from classic cars to motorcycles to modern driver’s cars. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and Humvees. Erik is an eager car and motorcycle reviewer with expertise covering everything from sports cars and electric motorcycles to pontoon boats and jet skis.

Erik holds a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Texas at Austin. He also studied Chinese, Energy, and European Politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Erik’s background is unorthodox; he is a United States Marine Corps (USMC) combat veteran, water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. Additionally, Erik is a regular volunteer and former instructor with the American Red Cross (ARC). When he’s not working, you can find Erik on his motorcycle or out for a spirited drive.