NORTH PORT, Fla. — A North Port police sergeant’s quick thinking likely saved a child’s life after spotting them running dangerously close to traffic on U.S. 41 late at night.

Sergeant Shields was on patrol when he saw the small child, who has developmental delays, sprinting along the roadway near a Lowe’s store. Dashcam footage shows the frightening moment the child was nearly struck by a passing vehicle before Shields stopped and brought them to safety.

Police said the child had managed to leave home despite safeguards in place. “The parents did everything they could,” the department wrote, urging the public to show compassion for the family during what was described as a terrifying situation.

The child was safely reunited with their family. The North Port Police Department also reminded residents of available safety programs, including Project Lifesaver, which provides wearable tracking devices for individuals prone to wandering, and the Special Needs Assessment Program (SNAP), which allows families to share vital information with first responders.

“If you have a loved one with special needs, know that you are not alone,” the department said. “There are resources to help keep them safe.”

Source: North Port Police Department