A custom-built wheelchair used by a disabled six-year-old girl has been returned following an appeal after it was stolen when thieves took the family’s car.
Amy Riley, mother of Emily Riley-Dolan, said the theft in Leicestershire had left her daughter unable to “live a normal life” and the return of the chair was “absolutely vital”.
The chair, worth about £4,000, was in the boot of the family’s grey Peugeot 5008 when the vehicle was stolen from outside their home in Woodland Drive, Braunstone Town, at about 04:30 GMT on Sunday.
Later that day, following the appeal, police said the car and wheelchair were driven back to the family’s home and abandoned.
Leicestershire Police said people “were seen to run from the vehicle” and an investigation was ongoing to identify them.
Emily, who has spina bifida and is paralysed from the chest down, relies entirely on the wheelchair for mobility.
The wheelchair was due for replacement next year, but the new chair is still being custom-built in New Zealand to meet Emily’s needs.
Some of the family’s Christmas presents were also taken during the theft.
Before the vehicle was located, Ms Riley said: “The car was important, but Emily’s wheelchair is absolutely vital.
“Without it, she can’t get to hospital appointments, school, or any other events. We’re asking anyone who knows anything or sees the vehicle to please come forward.
“Getting her chair back means everything to us. Even if those who took the car could contact police and just leave the wheelchair somewhere for us to collect – that is all we care about.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact the force.
