WASHINGTON — Police are investigating after an employee of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) was carjacked in Northeast D.C. Wednesday afternoon.
According to the Metropolitan Police Department, officers were called to the 100 block of 12th Street NE for reports of an armed carjacking in the area around 3:45 p.m.
When officers arrived, they located the victim, identified only as a federal agent. The agent told officers two suspects had taken their car.
The vehicle was later recovered in the 1000 block of 15th Street SE less than 30 minutes later.
According to MPD's crime statistics, motor vehicle theft is up 93% this year when compared to the same time in 2022. Violent crime in all is reportedly up 40%.
DC Police have shared the following tips to try and reduce your risk of becoming a carjacking victim.
When you are on the road:
- Always keep your doors locked and windows rolled up (if it’s hot and you don’t have air conditioning, roll them up at least part-way) no matter how short the distance you’re traveling or how safe the neighborhood.
- Drive in the center lane to make it harder for potential carjackers to approach the car.
- Avoid driving alone. Travel with someone whenever possible, especially at night.
- When you are coming to a stop, leave enough room to maneuver around other cars, especially if you sense trouble and need to get away.
- Always drive with the doors locked. If a thief can’t get in your vehicle, you stand a better chance of leaving with it.
- Don't stop to assist a stranger whose car has broken down. You can help instead by driving to the nearest phone (or using your cell phone) to call police for help.
Anyone with information may contact detectives at (202) 727-9099 or text the department's tip line at 50411.
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The victim fought back and called for help while the suspect punched him repeatedly in the face, according to the police report.