Police said the boy, who was identified as Richard Banahene, was inside of a 2009 black Toyota Corolla when the vehicle was stolen from 11422 Southwest Fwy Sunday morning.
Police located the stolen vehicle and the child at 11035 Southwest Freeway after 12 p.m.
5-year-old boy found safe after being taken with stolen vehicle
They say a man named Carlos saw the car parked about a half mile from where it was stolen on the side of the road and called 911.
Carlos told reporters the boy was wandering around the car and looked scared.
When Richard's mom arrived on the scene, she ran to hug her son and cried tears of joy.
5-year-old found after being taken in stolen vehicle
She and her family shook Carlos' hand and thanked him for helping find their son.
Police are still searching for the suspect.
WATCH: Mother pleas for suspect to return missing child
Mother of missing 5-year-old pleas for car thief to return child
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