TRAVERSE CITY -- Law enforcement says a dangerous car chase could have been avoided if simple safety precautions were taken.
7&4's Kate Fox spoke with the victim and law enforcement about the incident.
Shirley Sullivan's car was stolen in Traverse City Thursday morning and after being taken on a risky car chase through Cadillac it ended up destroyed.
Sullivan says she made one common mistake that ultimately lead to this world-wind of events.
A man stole her Cadillac from Potter's Bakery in Traverse City. Sullivan made a quick stop to grab a jug of milk on her way to work. She says the parking lot was empty and because it was so cold out she left her car running with the keys in the ignition--a common mistake she would soon regret.
Potters Bakery’s Manager Becky Potter says "Sullivan walked out the door opened it about halfway and then she realized and turned around and was just like oh my goodness you guys somebody just took off with my car."
Potters' manager Becky Potter was just as shocked as Sullivan and says,” No way that would happen especially in Traverse City because most the people that come in here in the morning get out of their car they leave it running and they hop back in it and it's a quick get in get out situation."
Traverse City Police Captain Steve Morgan says times have changed and if you leave your car running with the keys in it, it may not be there when you get back. Captain Morgan says, "It's almost an invitation for someone that wants to steal your vehicle."
Captain Morgan offers this advice to keep you from ending up like Sullivan, "Lock your car, never leave valuables in sight, and never ever leave a child unattended in the vehicle."
The man accused of stealing Sullivan's car made his first court appearance this morning.
Anthony Tersigni II faces charges in both Wexford and Grand Traverse Counties. He's being held on a $500,000 dollar bond.
