Carjackings On The Rise?

Shreveport Police are looking for a man who reportedly carjacked a woman, sexually assaulted her and withdrew money from her bank account Monday night. Police say the victim jumped out of the vehicle and flagged down police. A short time later investigators found her car crashed into a pole at the intersection of Pete Harris Drive and Logan Street. "We have gotten a couple of tips, but nothing that seems to be substantiated yet." said Public Information Officer Kacee Hargrave. Tuesday S.P.D. responded to another carjacking call, this time at Cottons Grocery Store on Jewella and Lakeshore. Two men had just cashed a check at the store. Police say a suspect stole the money and got away with the victims silver 1997 Buick Regal. Just a few hours later a man called police saying his car was stolen at Columbia Park. Around 8:30 pm, The victim says he was approached by three young black males who demanded his car keys at gunpoint. They drove away in the victims white four door Toyota Camry. "We do not believe they are related at this time. The suspect descriptions and things seem to be a little different," said Hargrave. But just what should you do if you come face to face with a carjacker? "Dont do anything thats gonna jeopardize you more than you are already jeopardized," said S.P.D. Corporal Paul Robinson. Robinson works in the Tactical Crimes Unit, and is investigating the recent carjackings. He says there are a few things you can do to stay safe in the event of a carjacking. "If people can avoid shopping at grocery stores, ATMs late at night." Robinson says it may seem obvious but lock your doors, keep your windows rolled up and never pick up hitchhikers. "As the weathers getting warmer were seeing a lot more street level robberies," said Robinson. "So you really, really need to be aware of whats going on around you.And the best advice... Always remember your property is never worth your life."Property can be replaced...Your life cannot be replaced." Experts say every situation is different so you should always just use your best judgment. And if you have a bad feeling about someone approaching your vehicle trust your instincts and get away as soon as possible.If you have any information in any of these crimes please call Crimestoppers (318) 673-7373.