Police Share Safety Tips as Carjacking Incidents Increase in Region

Published on February 01, 2023

ARLINGTON, Va. – The Arlington County Police Department is sharing information regarding recent carjackings and crime prevention tips to keep the community safe as reports of these incidents rise in the National Capital Region. Since the beginning of 2023, the Arlington County Police Department has investigated five reports of carjackings in the County. The Department continues to deploy increased police resources, to include both visible and non-visible assets, in Crystal City and the surrounding neighborhoods to address this crime trend. As part of our ongoing investigative efforts into these incidents, detectives are working collaboratively with regional law enforcement partners to identify trends, apprehend suspects and hold them accountable for their actions.

Method of Theft

Carjacking refers to the stealing of a victim's vehicle by force, threat or intimidation. In recent cases, carjacking suspects have generally approached victims as they were inside their idling parked vehicles, brandished a firearm and demanded the victim’s keys and property. In some cases, the suspects approach the victim by pulling alongside them in a vehicle which is later determined to be stolen. Reported incidents in Arlington have generally involved multiple suspects.

Reported Incidents

Details regarding the reported incidents can be found on the Daily Crime Report:

• CARJACKING, 2023-01120081, 1000 block of S. Frederick Street
• CARJACKING, 2023-01150235, 500 block of 23rd Street S.
• CARJACKING, 2023-01250205, 2200 block of Crystal Drive
• CARJACKING, 2023-01260270, 1100 block of S. Hayes Street
• CARJACKING, 2023-01300249, 400 block of 23rd Street S.

Safety Tips and Crime Prevention Measures

Police are reminding the public to follow these safety tips:

• When inside your vehicle, keep your doors locked and windows up
• Exit your vehicle and continue to your destination promptly after parking
• Be aware of your surroundings when entering and exiting your vehicle
• Limit your use of devices that may distract you, such as cell phones and headphones
• Don’t leave items unattended or visible in your vehicle

Read More: Additional Crime Prevention Tips

Report Information to Police for Investigation

Arlington County Police officers proactively patrol Arlington’s neighborhoods to identify and prevent criminal activity. The department’s efforts are enhanced by the active involvement of members of the public. If you observe criminal activity or are the victim of a crime, contact police immediately by calling the Emergency Communications Center at 703-558-2222 or 911 in an emergency.