In an act of swift justice that would make even a New York minute seem sluggish, a would-be bike thief was nabbed in Victorville this weekend, confirming that not all heroes wear capes—some just drive by. According to a press release from the San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department, the good Samaritan witnessed 39-year-old transient Mark Stephen Gruber making his ill-fated attempt to steal a juvenile's bike outside a McDonald's on Bear Valley Road.

The Samaritan sprang into action after they saw Gruber pushing the juvenile from their bike, a move that backfired when it attracted attention instead of quick loot. Deputies dispatched to the scene learned from the bystander that they were able to recover the bike and return it to the shaken but unhurt young owner. Meanwhile, Gruber tried to beat a hasty retreat—only to be picked up by authorities nearby, a short while after his departure.

The would-be thief is now cooling his heels at High Desert Detention Center, where he's been booked for attempted robbery and child endangerment, with a side of outstanding warrants to keep things interesting. Gruber's capture and the call to look out for our youngest and most vulnerable brings to mind the age-old proverb that it takes a village to raise a child—and sometimes, to protect one too.

Deputy D. Ruiz, the case agent, along with the Victorville Police is encouraging anyone with further information to step forward. In a statement made to concerned locals, "Anyone with information about this investigation is urged to contact the Victorville Police Station at (760) 241-2911," with assurances that tipsters can also remain anonymous through the We-Tip hotline or the accompanying website. As the case number 172404625 floats in bureaucratic limbo, one child's world has been righted again, thanks to a bystander's courage and a community's watchful eye.