Dog Returned After Towson Car Theft: Police

TOWSON, MD — A dog stolen during a car theft Sunday night in Baltimore County was returned to her owner, police reported Thursday. Initially, the car was recovered, but the pooch was missing.

Bri Bri, whose name is pronounced "Bree Bree," was in the backseat of a blue Nissan Altima when a man slipped into the vehicle and drove off with the white Bichon Frise in the back seat.

She was taken from the Ravenwood Shopping Center in the 8000 block of Loch Raven Boulevard, where the dog's owner had stopped around 9:20 p.m. Sunday to pick up carryout from Island Quizine and left the car running so Bri Bri would stay cool, police said. When the owner stepped inside the business to pay, officials said a man stole the vehicle.

Officials said Wednesday that the stolen car was found in Baltimore City, and the dog remained at large.

Bri Bri is 15 years old and has a cyst on her right front leg, authorities reported.

"Great news! Bri Bri was found and returned home safe to her mom!" police said in a statement Thursday morning. "Thank you for all the help in looking for her."