The child wanted the car to stop and his mother to wake up - 12-year-old takes over the wheel on the highway (Review)

On Sunday, June 28, 2026, a remarkable incident unfolded on the Struma Motorway near Sofia, Bulgaria, when a 12-year-old girl found herself in a life-threatening situation after her mother suffered a stroke while driving. The young girl, who was seated in the front passenger seat, took control of the vehicle despite being unaccustomed to driving, managing to steer the car safely off the road without causing an accident. This extraordinary event highlights both the gravity of the situation and the quick thinking of the child involved.

The incident began around noon when the woman, who had been driving, suddenly fell ill due to a stroke. The car continued moving forward, leaving the family in a precarious position. Recognizing the danger, the girl decided to take action. She called emergency services on the number 112, seeking help. Her call was received by operator Georgi Petrov from the Sofia-based emergency center. Despite the shock she felt, the girl managed to provide crucial information about their location and the type of vehicle they were traveling in—a gray Hyundai.

Petrov described the moment as one filled with tension but also hope. He noted that the girl was clearly distressed, expressing her desire for the car to stop and for her mother to wake up. Nevertheless, she remained calm enough to follow instructions given by the operator. Petrov emphasized how important it is for children to know the emergency numbers and to remain composed during crises, which this incident exemplifies.

Following the initial call, the police in Pernik were alerted and quickly responded to the situation. Initially confused about the direction of travel, the officers soon realized the correct route and mobilized resources accordingly. Throughout the ordeal, the girl maintained communication with the authorities, following their guidance meticulously. With the help of the police, she maneuvered the car onto the shoulder of the motorway before stopping it completely. Witnesses later recounted how the girl explained her actions, even going so far as to attempt to locate the handbrake manually, ultimately using her hands to press the brake pedal.

Emergency medical teams arrived promptly and transported the woman to the hospital, where it was confirmed that she had indeed suffered a stroke. The police praised the girl's composure and quick decision-making under pressure, highlighting her actions as a model response to a critical situation. They acknowledged the rarity of such incidents involving minors taking charge of a vehicle in distress, underscoring the importance of preparedness among children.

This incident has sparked discussions within emergency service circles regarding the need for increased awareness campaigns aimed at educating children about emergency procedures. Operator Petrov shared his experience, noting that over seven years of working with emergency calls, this was the first instance he encountered where a minor played such a pivotal role in resolving a crisis. His account serves as a reminder of the significance of teaching children how to handle emergencies effectively.

As the community reflects on this incident, there is a growing emphasis on ensuring that children are well-prepared for unexpected situations. Emergency services continue to conduct educational sessions in kindergartens and schools, reinforcing the importance of knowing emergency contact numbers and basic safety protocols. The story of the 12-year-old girl who saved her mother’s life through her bravery and quick thinking stands as a testament to the power of preparation and resilience in the face of adversity.