Never underestimate the abilities of a toddler. Not sure what part you doubt, but I don’t doubt any of it is possible. Toddlers have had to be rescued from claw machines before, crossing the street and getting in the bowling alley would be a piece of cake for an active toddler. Most people don’t pay attention to other children like they used to, heck many don’t pay attention to their own.
I have no idea if this story is true, but it definitely is do-able, I could see my grandson pulling this off easy.