A potential robbery spree was prevented when Jamaica Constabulary Force officers caught up to a car wash attendant who stole a vehicle from his place of employment. The carjacking in May Pen, Clarendon, led to a car chase and a crash in Mandeville, Manchester.
The series of events kicked off when a Honda Stepwagon went missing at a May Pen car wash on Tuesday. Preliminary reports say that the car was dropped off around 3 p.m. by the owner.
Shortly after, the owner was alerted that the vehicle was taken from the property by a worker without permission. The vehicle was quickly tracked to a remote, heavily wooded area on the outskirts of Mandeville.
When the police were notified, a team was dispatched to the location. The situation escalated on Caledonia Road near a popular fast-food restaurant, where officers spotted the stolen vehicle.
Reports say that a brief pursuit ensued, which ended when the driver reportedly crashed into a utility pole after colliding with several vehicles. When the car came to a stop, there was reportedly a shootout that sent passersby scrambling for cover. Police said that the car had three occupants: the car wash attendant, who was driving, and two other unidentified men.
The two men bolted from the vehicle and fled the scene on foot. Meanwhile, the attendant was apprehended by police. Officers later shared a theory that the men were likely planning a series of robberies in the Mandeville area. An investigation has since been launched, and a section of Caledonia Road was temporarily cordoned off following the incident.
A relative of the car owner expressed deep gratitude to the police, highlighting their rapid response. He commended them for working swiftly and expressed that the tighter security measures would significantly help to make Jamaica a better place.
He also emphasised the importance of citizens supporting the police, explaining that without cooperation from the public, criminals would feel more empowered. He pointed out that relying on criminal elements instead of law enforcement is dangerous, as they can turn violent when things don’t go their way.
