Concern grows as carjackings across Philadelphia escalate in all neighborhoods
CENTER CITY - Carjackings right in the heart of Center City. Just proof the pilferers can strike anywhere, at any time.
There is concern along Walnut Street in Center City Monday after a neighbor was carjacked at gunpoint just as he stepped out of his 2019 Audi SUV Easter Sunday night.
"It’s a big concern. I mean, you can see the violence in the city is growing over the pandemic," stated David Macfarland.
"I guess it can happen anywhere, so you always have to be aware," a resident commented.
Sources say the carjacking victim had just dropped his wife and year-old baby off at his house and unloaded several packages. When he moved his car to his parking lot just up the block, the carjackers approached him.
It happened in a rear alley parking area behind apartments in the 300 block of Walnut Street. That’s where residents and employees, like David McFarland, park their cars. Police say the carjackers pointed a gun at the victim’s head and threatened to shoot him if he didn’t give up his keys.
"It’s just unfortunate that it happened here," Macfarland said.
A few hours later, around 1 a.m., police say an Uber driver dropping a rider off on the 1900 block of South 8th Street in South Philadelphia had a gun stuck in his face. He, too, was forced to hand over the keys to his 2020 Toyota Corolla.
"I think it happens everywhere. I grew up in the New York City area, so I’m used to it," the resident added.
"You gotta be safe. Even in my neighborhood. It’s a shame," Macfarland went on.
With more than 150 carjackings already this year, drivers across the city are looking over their shoulders.
"I just make sure I leave while the sun’s still out," Macfarland said.
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