Police probe after teens kick doors, hit parked car in suburban Michigan

Residents of a quiet subdivision in Sterling Heights, Michigan, found themselves at the center of a police investigation after a series of incidents linked to a group of young people.

The events unfolded on Saturday, November 8, in a neighborhood located near 19 Mile Road between Mound and Ryan roads. Surveillance footage captured by local homeowners shows the group targeting three separate properties. In one clip, an individual performs a cartwheel before members of the group kick the garage door of a residence.

Ayden Karana, a resident of the subdivision, expressed shock at the behavior. "Yeah, that's crazy. Wasn't expecting something like that," Karana said. "That's not acceptable."

The situation escalated later that same night for one local mother. She reported that the same group seen in the earlier videos was driving a vehicle on a nearby street. The driver reversed into her car and then drove off. Her two toddlers were in the vehicle at the time. "They went crazy, screaming, crying," she said.

Although no one was physically hurt, Sterling Heights Police Lt. Aaron Susalla stated that investigators believe the juveniles on camera are the same individuals responsible for the collision. He noted that while the damage was minor, state law requires drivers to stop and exchange information after an accident. "I'm sure in their mind, they're just joking around, being kids, but those things can turn into bigger, more serious incidents," Susalla said.

The mother whose car was struck said she seeks accountability so that the parents of the teens can take action. She added that teenagers are old enough to understand the difference between playful behavior and damaging private property. Police are currently asking homeowners to report any similar incidents as the department continues its investigation.