PEMBROKE PINES, FLA. (WSVN) - Two people were carjacked at gunpoint at the Marela Apartments and police are still looking for the thieves.
Pembroke Pines Police shared surveillance video that showed who they suspect are the people involved in an armed carjacking at the apartments on Northwest 129th Avenue and First Street, Monday night.
“This was a brazen, violent crime, not very common in Pembroke Pines. Both victims feared for their lives,” said Maj. Al Xiques with Pembroke Pines Police.
Police received a 911 call after two people got out of their car at the apartment complex.
They said they were approached from behind by someone with a gun. That person demanded they hand over their keys and then took off with their 2017 Mercedes SUV.
Officers tracked down the stolen car to a Miramar gas station where it was found empty. They believe whoever took the vehicle got away, but not before being caught on camera.
“We’re confident that the quality of the surveillance video available to us, in this case, will hopefully identify these suspects,” said Xiques.
“It’s definitely scary,” said Shane Brown, who lives in the complex.
“Pembroke Pines is not usually known for a lot of violence and stuff, so it’s very heartbreaking to hear that kind of stuff going on,” said Robert Nonies, who lives in the complex.
People who live in the complex said it’s usually quiet. The gated community are on edge, but not too surprised, after telling 7News certain security measures to get into the complex haven’t been working.
“The front gate’s been broken for like months,” said Brown.
“The rent here, it’s expensive,” said Cinthya Uquillis, who lives in the complex. “Like, they charge for everything, for everything. Like every little thing is like charged, and the gate doesn’t work.”
“They need to get a hold of what’s going on around here. We’re supposed to be in a gated area,” said Nonies.
The armed pair was later seen abandoning the car at a Sunoco gas station in Miramar.
Police set up a perimeter, but were unable to track them down.
7News reached out to the apartment complex about the gate issue. They have not responded.
If you have any information on this crime, call Broward County Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a reward of up to $5,000.
Copyright 2024 Sunbeam Television Corp. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.