Investigators from Hume Crime Investigation Unit are investigating the theft of a vehicle with a child on board from Craigieburn yesterday (February 11).

Detectives believe a person stole the silver Mitsubishi Outlander from Hamilton Street at 10pm, where a three-year-old boy was asleep in a booster chair in the back seat.

The offender drove the car for about three minutes before abandoning the car and child.

4-year-old Rhonin was found crying inside a car at Craigieburn overnight after a thief stole his parent’s SUV while he was asleep inside. His dad was metres away while the engine was still running. The bandit dumped the vehicle around the corner. @9NewsMelb pic.twitter.com/D2ZDXHOJ8q

— Sam Cucchiara (@SamCucchiara9) February 12, 2019

The offender jumped into a light-coloured hatchback driven by another person.

The duo was last seen driving south on Cimberwood Drive at about 10.20pm.

The toddler was safely reunited with his family.

Police are appealing for dashcam footage from anyone who may have been travelling in the area at the time.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Victoria Police