A dad who ‘abandoned’ his five-year-old son in the street and drove off is under investigation after claiming it was just a ‘prank’.
Shocking footage captured the moment the youngster was forced out of his dad’s car.
He was heard pleading: “Dad, don’t leave me!”
READ MORE: Influencer in hot water for ‘looting’ overturned lorry filled with olive oil
The father was seen driving off as the distressed lad gave chase on foot.
Horrified neighbours heard the boy’s screams and reported it to the police at around 9.15pm on Monday night (6 Apr).
One witness described the scene as “alarming,” stating their heart was filled with “rage” at the sight of the small child running in the middle of the street.
Officers from the Secretariat of Citizen Security launched an immediate search operation in Cuchilla de Padierna, Mexico City, Mexico.
Cops tracked down the dad’s vehicle and found the boy safe and sound inside, as reported by Need To Know.
Upon being confronted by police, the father reportedly claimed the abandonment was “just a prank” and that he was merely mucking around.
However, his details – along with the child’s – were taken for a formal investigation by the Public Ministry.
Investigators are reportedly probing the case as a matter of potential child endangerment and psychological mistreatment.
The boy is currently being monitored by child protection services as officials determine if it is safe for him to remain in his father’s care.
READ MORE: Suspicious wife dangles from back of hubby’s truck to catch him cheating