
Fri Sep 20 09:14:43 UTC 2024: ## Sydney Tradie Devastated After Ute Stolen While Wife Gave Birth
**Wiley Park, NSW** – A Sydney tradie has been left heartbroken and facing a financial nightmare after his ute was stolen while his wife was giving birth in hospital. The theft was captured on a doorbell camera, showing a hooded figure driving away with the vehicle, which contained thousands of dollars worth of tools.
The incident occurred on Tuesday morning around 12:37am on The Boulevarde in Wiley Park. Dan Charbel, the owner of the ute, was at the hospital with his wife who was giving birth to their first child. He returned home to find the vehicle missing and discovered the theft on the doorbell camera footage.
Charbel described the experience as a “very low act,” highlighting the financial strain this theft has caused. He relies on his ute for his sole-trader business and now faces a significant setback. “It’s like 10 years of work … of hard work just to get to where I am, and it’s just gone down the drain, virtually,” he said.
The joyous occasion of welcoming a new child has been overshadowed by the unfortunate theft. Charbel expressed his frustration and urged thieves to consider the impact of their actions on families. “There are families that are really struggling and going through a hard time,” he said. “You don’t know what everyone’s going through, so it’s better to stop this low act and go on with your life … leave people alone.”
NSW Police have confirmed they are investigating the theft and are encouraging anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers. This incident comes after another vehicle theft and arson incident earlier in the week in Merrylands, where a stolen Toyota RAV4 was found burning.