The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office requests the public's assistance in gathering any surveillance footage that may aid in the ongoing investigation into attempted carjacking incidents that occurred Saturday in California, MD.
Residents and businesses in California, at or near FDR and MacArthur Boulevard, 22711 Three Notch Road or 22610 Three Notch Road, are asked to review their video surveillance systems for any suspicious activity on Saturday, September 21. Even small details could provide valuable information to investigators.
If you have any relevant footage or notice anything unusual in your recordings, please contact the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office at 301-475-8008. You can also anonymously submit video footage through our online portal at https://cityprotect.com/forms/stmarysmd.com/anonymous. Your cooperation can help bring closure to these cases and enhance the safety of our community.
In addition, the Sheriff’s Office urges drivers to remain vigilant about locking their car doors every time they exit their vehicle. Whether at a gas station pump, ATM, or running into a store for just a moment, securing your vehicle is essential to deterring theft.
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Original News Release:
Sheriff’s Office Investigating Two Attempted Carjackings, Urges Drivers to Stay Alert
LEONARDTOWN, MD (September 22, 2024) – Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office are investigating two attempted carjacking incidents that occurred Saturday night in separate locations in California, Maryland.
The first incident occurred around 9:34 p.m. near the intersection of FDR Boulevard and MacArthur Boulevard. A female driver reported that several black males approached her vehicle, and one of the suspects, dressed in all black and wearing a blue surgical mask, showed a handgun and demanded her car. The victim was able to drive away safely, and no injuries were reported.
The second incident occurred at approximately 11:42 p.m. at a convenience store located at 22711 Three Notch Road. The male victim had just made a purchase and was getting into his car when four black males, also dressed in all black and wearing face masks, surrounded his vehicle and demanded his car. The victim drove out of the parking lot, and the suspects left the area on foot. No injuries were reported.
Both incidents are being actively investigated. The Criminal Investigations Division has assumed the cases, and anyone with information related to these incidents is asked to contact Sergeant Keith Moritz at 301-475-4200, ext. 8093, or by email at Keith.Moritz@stmaryscountymd.gov.
Tipsters can also call Crime Solvers 24/7 at 301-475-3333 or text Crime Solvers at 274637. In the message block, type "Tip239" and select SEND. After you get a response, continue your conversation.
Note: Tip239 is case-sensitive and must be typed in the message block as shown. With Crime Solvers, you never have to give your name. You may be eligible for a cash reward if your information leads to an arrest.
The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office urges motorists to stay alert and be aware of their surroundings, especially in parking lots or unfamiliar areas. If you notice anything unusual or feel unsafe, call 911 immediately. Your quick action can help prevent potential crimes and ensure your safety.
