Watch: New Wheels Delivered to Pint-Sized Crime Victim

Check out the video at the bottom of this post.

The sad story of a little boy and a stolen bicycle had its ending rewritten in a happy way recently courtesy of a few Tampa Police officers and a band of local businesses.

The tale began to unfold on Tuesday, June 23, when Caleb Howard, 8, was out riding his shiny, brand new Mongoose bicycle, enjoying the outdoors in his North Tampa neighborhood. That’s when police say an older boy approached Caleb with intentions that were less than noble. The older boy beat up Caleb, police said, and took off on his bicycle.

When Major Lee Bercaw and Lt. Randy Peters heard about Caleb’s story, they knew they had to do something. And, do something they did.

See Also:

• Watch: Doggone Cute Take on America’s Oldest City
• Snooty Breaks World Record

The two district two officers reached out to Pawn Max on Fowler Avenue to see if the business might help turn Caleb’s frown upside down. Pawn Max jumped in to assist, the department reported, donating a bicycle to the cause. Joe Haskins Bicycle Shop and OPG Detail also stepped up to the plate, offering their services to “spiffy up the used bike for Caleb,” an email from the department stated.

Police presented Caleb his new wheels before the weekend kicked off.

“I like it,” Caleb said with a big smile as he checked out his new ride.

While Caleb’s story ended on a happy note, police continue to search for the theft suspect. They report Caleb was seriously injured during the robbery.

Tampa Police are also using Caleb’s story to remind residents of the department’s bicycle registration program. The free service helps officers locate and return bicycles to their owners if they are lost or stolen. To learn more or to register a bicycle online, visit the Tampa Police Department’s website.

Screenshot