RED BANK, NJ – In an audacious daylight robbery at a Red Bank gas station, a man is wanted by police after allegedly stealing a car right in front of its owner.
Surveillance footage captured the suspect’s cunning approach as he slipped out of a white BMW SUV with Pennsylvania plates, parked just a few feet from the active pump.
The incident unfolded while a gas station attendant was busy filling another vehicle. The car owner had stepped away, leaving his car momentarily unattended. Taking advantage of the distraction, the suspect resorted to crawling on all fours to reach the driver’s side door, a maneuver seen clearly on the security tapes.
Once inside, the suspect’s intentions became apparent to the car owner.
A quick scuffle ensued as the owner tried to regain control of the vehicle. However, fearing the thief might be armed, the owner retreated, allowing the suspect to drive away with the stolen vehicle.
The victim, a resident of Middletown, backed off during the confrontation, expressing concerns over a potential weapon threat. Fortunately, he was not harmed, but the suspect managed to escape, prompting police to seek public assistance in identifying him and locating the stolen car. Authorities have also asked for any information about the white SUV involved.
This bold heist occurred just days after New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy announced a significant drop in car thefts across the state, attributing the decline to a new auto theft task force. In response, Red Bank police have liaised with the task force to tackle this incident and bolster efforts in catching the suspect.
As investigators continue their search, they remain hopeful that the footage and public tips will lead to a swift resolution of this startling case.
