Man Tries To Steal Multiple Cars And Runs Across I-4: Sheriff

POLK COUNTY, FL — A 32-year-old man was captured on Interstate-4 Friday morning after he attempted to steal multiple cars following the crash of his truck, said Polk County Sheriff's Office.

The suspect, Christopher Hendrix crashed his truck on Intersate-4 near State Road 557 around 7:54 a.m., and he ran from his vehicle to a nearby Marathon gas station, 6000 State Road 557, afterwards, said deputies.

A woman who pumped gas into her Chevy Colorado noticed Hendrix trying to get inside her car, and she sprayed gasoline on him, said detectives.

Investigators said he ran to a nearby van parked at the store, and the owner who has a concealed weapons permit stood outside the building and noticed the suspect got into his van.

The van owner pulled a gun on him and told him to get out of his car, said authorities.

Hendrix then ran and jumped onto I-4, and the driver of a box truck had to slam on its brakes to avoid hitting him, and this resulted in a semi ramming into the back of the box truck, said officials.

A truck pulled over to the shoulder to help, and Hendrix tried to get in but couldn't because the doors were locked, said police.

Hendrix ran to another vehicle parked on the shoulder and got into the backseat, and the driver took the keys from the ignition and got out of the car, said investigators.

Deputies were able to arrest Hendrix and take him to the Polk County Jail.

Authorities said Hendrix faces the following charges:

• Carjacking
• Grand theft auto
• Occupied burglary
• Felony criminal mischief
• Escape