>

State Patrol investigating multiple carjackings on I-5, suspects arrested

Police nab suspects after string of violent carjackings on Washington freeway

Suspects face multiple charges, including robbery, assault, and kidnapping

The Washington State Patrol is investigating a series of carjackings that occurred on Interstate 5 near Olympia on Wednesday, January 18, 2023. Three suspects have been arrested in connection with the incidents.

According to the State Patrol, the first carjacking occurred at approximately 1:30 p.m. when a woman was forced out of her vehicle at gunpoint. The suspects then fled the scene in the victim's car.

A short time later, a second carjacking was reported near milepost 101. This time, the victim was a man who was assaulted by the suspects before being forced out of his vehicle.

The suspects then continued southbound on I-5, where they carjacked a third vehicle near milepost 95. The victim of this carjacking was a woman who was also assaulted by the suspects.

The State Patrol was able to locate the suspects' vehicle and apprehend them after a brief pursuit. The three suspects, all of whom are from California, were booked into the Thurston County Jail on multiple charges, including robbery, assault, and kidnapping.

The investigation into the carjackings is ongoing. The State Patrol is asking anyone with information about the incidents to contact them.

Tips to avoid becoming a victim of carjacking:

• Be aware of your surroundings and the people around you.
• Park in well-lit areas, if possible.
• Lock your car doors and windows, even when you're inside.
• Don't leave valuables in your car.
• Be cautious of people who approach you in parking lots or at gas stations.
• If you're approached by someone who is armed, do not resist. Give them what they want and call the police as soon as possible.