WASHINGTON — Police are asking for the public's help identifying a carjacking suspect.
According to the Metropolitan Police Department's Carjacking Task Force, the carjacking happened in the 200 block of Malcolm X Avenue in Southeast D.C. on Saturday, Dec. 16.
Investigators say just before 9 p.m. the suspect ran up to the vehicle and pulled the victim out of the car before driving in away.
Police released a photo of the suspect Friday.
Anyone with information may contact detectives at (202) 727-9099 or by texting the department's tip line at 50411. The Metropolitan Police Department currently offers a reward of up to $1,000 to anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for a violent crime committed in the District of Columbia.
The Metropolitan Police Department has several tips for those to keep in mind when trying to avoid carjackings or auto thefts.
- Always remove your keys and lock the car doors.
- Lock your doors immediately upon entering, even before you put the keys in the ignition. Keep the doors locked at all times while in your vehicle.
- Secure your vehicle, even if parking for “just a minute.” Remove your keys, lock all your doors, and close your windows.
NEVER leave your engine running and vehicle unattended while you run into your home, a convenience store, while pumping gas or anywhere else.
- If you come across a disabled vehicle on a road or see someone trying to flag you down, the safest way you can help is by calling 911.
- Park in well-lit areas, when possible, near sidewalks or walkways. Avoid parking near dumpsters, large vans or trucks, or anything else that limits your visibility.
- Always be aware of your surroundings when idle at traffic lights and other locations observing people and vehicles around you.
If someone tries to carjack you…
- Don’t resist or argue, especially if there is a weapon involved.
- Try to remember what the robber or carjacker looks like – sex, race, age, hair and eye color, special features, clothes when you call 911 to report the crime to the police.
- Sometimes carjackers have a “follow vehicle,” driven by an accomplice. As the carjacker drives off with your vehicle, try to notice if there is another vehicle following closely behind. If so, try to remember as much as you can about that vehicle.
- Get away from the area as quickly as possible.
- Report the crime to the police. Your actions can prevent others from becoming victims.
Above all, remember: give up your property – don’t put yourself at risk to endanger your life. Vehicles can be replaced, but you can’t be.
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