Man Tries To Carjack 3 People In Caltrain Parking Lot, Gets Stuck In Traffic: Sheriff's Office

SAN CARLOS, CA – A San Jose man was arrested after allegedly carjacking someone in the parking lot of a San Carlos Caltrain station on Wednesday, the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office reports. The man had apparently, and unsuccessfully, tried to take two other vehicles from drivers first.

It happened around 5:30 p.m. at the Caltrain station at 599 El Camino Real, according to sheriff's Det. Sal Zuno. A man, later identified as 36-year-old Andres Sanchez, got into someone's vehicle and refused to get out. The driver called 911, and Sanchez "...got out and walked away."

"After walking away, Sanchez attempted to open the doors of another car which was driving into the Caltrain parking lot, but was unable to gain access into that car," Zuno said.

"Sanchez then approached the driver of a third vehicle, and while simulating having a firearm, threatened to kill the driver and demanded he give him a ride," according to Zuno. "Fearing for his life, the driver got out of his car and Sanchez jumped in and attempted to drive away from the station."

Sheriff's officials and transit police got to the scene as Sanchez was attempted to drive off. However, stuck in a traffic jam, the suspect didn't get far.

"Due to the heavy traffic, Sanchez was unable to drive away," Zuno said. "Sanchez exited the vehicle and fled on foot, but was immediately caught and arrested by our deputies."

Sanchez was ultimately arrested on charges of carjacking and attempted carjacking and booked into the Redwood City jail on $100,000 bail, according to booking records.

"The Sheriff’s Office would like to remind the public to always be aware of their surroundings and to lock their doors once inside their vehicles," Zuno said.

Image via San Mateo County Sheriff's Office