Detectives said the the two people seen in surveillance video did not have a grand plan to commit a carjacking.
Witnesses said a man covered in tattoos and the woman with him seemed to be under the influence when they walked across US 19 to a 7-11 in Holiday.
It was 7:30 Tuesday morning.
What you can’t see in the video is the man pulling a gun on the driver of a Honda Odyssey and stealing it.
He and the woman drove off, although they dumped the van a short time later on Poinsettia Avenue in Tarpon Springs without stealing anything.
Investigators think they made it back to Holiday where they tried to steal bikes, before getting scared off.
Now they are hoping someone will recognize them from the surveillance video taken at the 7-11.
“We always ask for the public’s help in situations like this because of the violence that was demonstrated. And the fact the public is at risk until we apprehend them,” said Detective Daniel Toner.
When it comes to armed carjackings, the Pasco Sheriff’s office said they are rare in Pasco County, especially during daylight hours at such a busy place.
And the victim did exactly the right thing , not just giving up the van, but running away.
“Property can be replaced. People’s lives can’t,” said Toner.
And if it ever happens to you, do the same.
Detectives said the carjackers are likely from the area, either Holiday or Tarpon Springs.
As for the van, the owner got it back without a scratch.
If you information on the carjacking, call 1-800-706-2488 or leave a tip on at www.pascosheriff.com.
