Arheel's Uncle
Senior Reporter
"Off-Duty Maryland Police Officer Thwarts Carjacking, Fires Weapon Near D.C. Shopping Mall" - County Local News
Accident - Death - Obituary News : Armed Off-Duty Maryland Police Officer Thwarts Carjackers Near Washington, D.C. Shopping Mall
countylocalnews.com
“Off-Duty Maryland Police Officer Thwarts Carjacking, Fires Weapon Near D.C. Shopping Mall”
December 31, 2023 by Egbe Ogu
“Off-Duty Maryland Police Officer Thwarts Carjacking, Fires Weapon Near D.C. Shopping Mall”
December 31, 2023 by Egbe Ogu
Accident – Death – Obituary News : Armed Off-Duty Maryland Police Officer Thwarts Carjackers Near Washington, D.C. Shopping Mall
In a recent incident near a popular shopping mall outside Washington, D.C., an armed off-duty Maryland police officer successfully defended his family against two suspected carjackers. The officer fired his weapon, causing the suspects to flee and ensuring the safety of his loved ones.
During a press conference, Prince George Assistant Chief Vernon Hale III emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant and aware of one’s surroundings. He urged the public to take care of one another and keep their eyes open, as this incident serves as a reminder that anyone can become a target, even law enforcement officers.
The incident occurred at around 5 p.m. on Thursday evening in Oxon Hill. The off-duty officer, who remains unidentified, was assisting two family members as they entered their personal vehicle in a parking lot near office buildings. The parking lot is located across the street from the Tanger Outlets National Harbor shopping center and serves various establishments such as dental and medical offices.
Related Post: Can Donald Trump still run for US president after Colorado court ruling?
As the family members were preparing to leave, they were approached by at least two suspects. The suspects forced the off-duty officer and his family out of the vehicle, in what authorities are calling an “apparent carjacking.” However, the quick-thinking officer fired his weapon, causing the suspects to flee in the vehicle. Fortunately, no one was injured, and police believe that none of the shots fired by the officer hit the suspects.
The off-duty officer used his department-issued firearm during the incident. Following the carjacking, police issued a “be on the lookout” alert for a black GMC Acadia. In a subsequent development, one of the suspects, identified as 19-year-old Anthony Stewart from Washington, D.C., was located and arrested. He will be extradited to Maryland to face charges including carjacking, robbery, theft, and additional offenses. However, the second suspect remains at large, and the Prince George’s County Police Department is seeking any tips from the public to help identify and locate the individual.
Sadly, this carjacking is just one of the many incidents that have plagued Maryland and Washington, D.C. this year. According to recent reports, Prince George’s County has experienced an 18% increase in carjackings compared to last year, with a total of 500 incidents as of last week. Similarly, carjackings in Washington, D.C. have more than doubled, with 952 cases reported as of the same time period, compared to 475 in 2022.
These alarming statistics highlight the urgent need for increased vigilance and proactive measures to combat carjacking and other crimes. Even political leaders and their families have not been spared from such incidents, as seen in October when Texas Democratic Representative Henry Cuellar was carjacked by three armed attackers near the U.S. Capitol.
The Prince George’s County Police Department is continuing its investigation into the recent carjacking incident and is appealing to the public for any information that can help identify the second suspect. Meanwhile, the off-duty officer involved has been placed on administrative leave pending the conclusion of the investigation.
As the community grapples with the rising trend of carjackings, it is essential for individuals to stay alert, report any suspicious activities, and take necessary precautions to safeguard themselves and their loved ones. By working together and remaining vigilant, we can create a safer environment for all..
