Austin, July 26, 2025
News Summary
Taylor Hannon, a food blogger from South Austin, faces a distressing situation as both his car and dog, Noodles, were stolen early Friday. The theft unfolded around 4:40 a.m. while Hannon was preparing for a weekend trip. He expressed deep concern for Noodles, a shy black terrier mix, as the community rallies to support Hannon’s plea for assistance in locating his beloved pet. The Austin Police Department is actively investigating the rising trend of automobile thefts in the area.
Austin – A beloved food blogger named Taylor Hannon is in distress after his car and dog were stolen early Friday morning from his apartment complex in South Austin. The theft occurred around 4:40 a.m., just as Hannon was preparing for a weekend road trip, causing him significant worry for the well-being of his black terrier mix, named Noodles.
Hannon left his red Honda Civic running outside his residence, approximately 15 feet from his front door, to allow the air conditioning to cool the vehicle while he went inside to grab his dog’s food and bed. When he returned, he noticed someone getting into his car and driving away. This brazen act unfolded at the apartment complex located along I-35 near Woodward Street.
Upon discovering the theft, Hannon expressed deep concern for Noodles, explaining that the dog is usually shy and very attached to him. He emphasized that his primary desire is the safe return of Noodles, stating he is less concerned about the stolen vehicle.
Investigating the theft, authorities noted that the thieves had left behind two scooters at the scene, indicating that they likely arrived on those transports. This connection led Hannon and a friend to reach out to Bird, the scooter rental company, in hopes of gathering leads on the suspects but reported receiving minimal assistance.
The Austin Police Department’s Auto Theft Unit is currently investigating the case. In recent months, the city has witnessed a marked increase in automobile thefts, with over 1,300 reported cases in April alone. Security surveillance from a nearby La Quinta Inn provided footage of Hannon’s car shortly after it was stolen, allowing law enforcement to trace its route post-theft.
Hannon remains hopeful for Noodles’ safe return, given that the dog is microchipped. He is appealing to anyone who might have information to help locate his pet, with the aspiration that Noodles could be found through an animal shelter or clinic. The incident has garnered considerable attention online, creating a wave of community support and sharing across social media platforms, as fellow Austinites rally behind Hannon’s plight.
As both Hannon’s vehicle and his dog remain missing, the local community continues to engage and share information to assist in their recovery. The situation raises broader concerns about vehicle theft in Austin and its impact on residents.
Overview of the Incident
- Date of Theft: Early morning, Friday
- Location: Apartment complex along I-35 near Woodward St.
- Victim: Taylor Hannon, popular food blogger
- Stolen Items: Red Honda Civic, a black terrier mix dog named Noodles
Current Status
- Hannon’s Appeal: Requests the return of Noodles
- Police Investigation: Active, with over 1,300 auto thefts in April reported
- Community Involvement: Surge of online and local support
Background Context
Auto theft has recently become a rising concern in Austin, casting doubt on local safety and security measures. As per reports, the police have been grappling with an influx of cases, necessitating community vigilance and cooperation. Hannon’s situation is a stark reminder of the challenges residents may face, prompting discussions on enhanced safety protocols for vehicle and pet security.
FAQ Section
What happened to Taylor Hannon’s car and dog?
Taylor Hannon’s red Honda Civic and his dog, Noodles, were stolen from his apartment complex in South Austin early Friday morning.
When did the theft occur?
The theft took place around 4:40 a.m. on Friday morning.
How was the theft carried out?
Hannon left his car running briefly, and when he returned, he saw someone entering his vehicle and driving away.
What actions are being taken to recover Noodles?
The dog is microchipped, and Hannon is hopeful that he can be returned through a shelter or animal clinic. The Austin Police Department is investigating the theft.
What has been the community response?
The theft has gained significant attention online, leading to increased community engagement and support for Hannon.
Key Features of the Situation
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Stakeholder | Taylor Hannon, food blogger |
| Stolen Items | Red Honda Civic, black terrier mix dog (Noodles) |
| Time of Theft | Approximately 4:40 a.m. |
| Location | South Austin apartment complex near I-35 |
| Current Investigations | Austin Police Department’s Auto Theft Unit |
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Additional Resources
- Fox 7 Austin: Food Blogger’s Car Stolen
- Wikipedia: Austin
- Austin Monthly: Local Influencer’s Dog Missing
- Google Search: Austin dog theft news
- KVUE: French Bulldog Lost in Austin
- Google Scholar: Austin vehicle theft
- KXAN: Austin Man Robbed for French Bulldog
- Encyclopedia Britannica: French Bulldog
- MSN News: Austin Man and Service Dog Steal Show
- Google News: Austin pet theft
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
