Be careful when you see a stroller on the street at night

At first glance, it might look like a scene from a thriller movie: a stroller sitting eerily alone on the side of a dark, empty road. But this disturbing sight has become a real and deeply alarming tactic that law enforcement agencies across the country are warning about—a trap used by criminals to target unsuspecting drivers traveling at night.

These staged setups, often involving baby strollers, car seats, or even what appear to be injured animals, are strategically placed in isolated areas, far from surveillance cameras or streetlights. The intent is to exploit human compassion. Most people, upon seeing what looks like an abandoned infant in a stroller, would instinctively pull over and rush to help. But that moment of vulnerability is exactly what these criminals are counting on. It’s during those few seconds—stepping out of your car, distracted, defenseless—that they strike.

There have been multiple reports from drivers who were robbed, carjacked, or physically attacked after stopping to investigate such scenes. These incidents usually occur late at night on highways, country roads, or deserted urban streets. In many cases, there was never a child or animal at all—just a prop placed to bait good-hearted people into dangerous situations.

One of the most chilling aspects of these encounters is how convincingly they are staged. Some strollers even have blankets, toys, or faint recorded sounds to heighten the illusion. In the dark, with limited visibility, it’s nearly impossible to tell what’s real and what’s a setup. The psychological toll on victims is often just as severe as the physical danger they faced.

So, what should you do if you see something like this on the road?

Stay in your vehicle. Lock the doors and avoid stopping if possible. If you truly suspect that someone may be in danger, call emergency services immediately and report the exact location. Keep driving until you reach a well-lit, populated area where it’s safe to stop. Let the professionals investigate.

Police departments across the country are urging drivers not to let their kindness be used against them. While it’s painful to think that something as innocent as a stroller could be a trap, the harsh reality is that criminals are becoming increasingly creative in how they exploit empathy. It’s not about being cold-hearted—it’s about being smart and staying safe.

The world is filled with compassionate people, but unfortunately, it’s also home to those who prey on that compassion. The next time you find yourself driving late at night and see something that doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts. Your safety must come first. Keep your doors locked, your phone ready, and your heart strong—but guarded.