New Prineville mom’s car stolen from Bend hospital lot

A new Prineville mother’s joy has been tempered with dismay after her car, with baby supplies inside, was stolen while she was in labor Monday afternoon at St. Charles Bend.

Casey Purcell didn’t want to speak to NewsChannel 21 on camera Tuesday, but her mother, Ginger Purcell, said the family is shock that this would happen at such a joyous time.

“It’s devastating that people would do this to somebody,” Purcell said.

The mother’s water broke Monday morning, so the baby’s father drove the new mom to St. Charles Bend.

The family said everything was happening so fast, the father didn’t realize he had left the keys in their car.

The car is a green older-model Honda Accord with specialized rims.

The grandmother said she is surprised thieves would be so bold as to steal the car in the middle of the day at a hospital.

Bend police said officers responded to the hospital on the report of a stolen vehicle. Lt. Clint Burleigh said police have not found the car.

Hospital officials released a statement:

“St. Charles’ on-site security team regularly patrols the parking lot, but unfortunately, property crimes and thefts do occur here from time to time. We encourage our patients and visitors to keep their vehicles locked, and to avoid leaving any valuables out where a passer-by can see them.”

The family said the car and baby supplies are replaceable, they’re just happy to enjoy their bundle of joy.

St. Charles already has helped the family with a new car seat, baby clothes and a diaper bag.