A routine stop for gas in East Memphis turned into a nightmare Thursday when a man was carjacked and robbed at gunpoint, police said. The victim was forced out of his vehicle and left without his wallet, phone or keys.
What police say
According to WREG, officers were called to a gas station in the 1600 block of Getwell Road after the victim reported that two suspects confronted him, demanded his belongings and then took off in his vehicle.
Inside the victim’s wallet were his driver’s license, a Social Security card, a FedEx Credit Union card, a Bank of America debit card and about $250 in cash, the station reported. The suspects also made off with his car keys and a black cellphone. Investigators say both suspects drove away in the stolen vehicle, heading eastbound on Willowview.
Suspect descriptions and threat
Police said both suspects were dressed in all-black clothing. One wore white shoes, while the other had on dark-colored shoes. During the robbery, one suspect allegedly pointed a gun at the victim and said, “don’t f****** move, i’ll blow your head off,” according to the station. As of now, no arrests have been announced.
Police response and how to tip
The Memphis Police Department is asking anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers at 901-528-CASH or submit an anonymous tip online. Tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward, and information could help detectives find the vehicle and identify the suspects.
Background: Carjackings in the area
Carjackings and armed robberies have been a recurring problem in parts of Memphis, including incidents reported on and near Getwell Road in recent years. Local outlets such as Action News 5 and coverage of a Memphis teacher and part-time Uber driver carjacked at gunpoint have highlighted similar cases and urged drivers to stay alert.
If you witnessed Thursday’s robbery or captured video of the incident, officials urge you to preserve the footage and contact Crime Stoppers. You can also call the Memphis Police Department’s non-emergency line with tips.
