LAUDERDALE LAKES, Fla. – A homeless couple is distraught after they say someone stole their car at a Lauderdale Lakes Walmart that had their beloved dog inside.
The incident was reported Tuesday night at a Walmart at 3001 N. State Road 7.
Broward Sheriff's Office spokeswoman Gina Carter said the couple lives in their car with their 8-year-old Pomeranian named Lacy, and the dog was still in the car when it was stolen.
Detectives said the thief stole the keys from the dashboard of the 2007 Toyota Corolla as the couple was sleeping inside. The couple told deputies that the man then woke them up and told them that someone in the Walmart wanted to speak with them. As they got out of the car, the thief jumped in and took off.
"He said, 'someone in Walmart wants to see you.' So I get out of the car and head to Walmart and just all of a sudden he drives off with the dog in the back," Shelly said. "I just want the dog back. I can always buy more stuff. I just want the dog back. I'm concerned about her and I was up all night worrying about her."
Detectives said everything that the couple owns was inside the car at the time.
Lacy's owners said their dog has medical issues and want to know that she's safe.
"(She's) very lovable," Shelly said. "She can get attached to you in minutes. She can't play or anything. You just have to give her a whole bunch of TLC."
Walmart was notified about the incident, but have not released any statements.
Police said the stolen car is a white 2007 Corolla with a dark-colored chipped bumper.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call Broward Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS.