In an alarming incident Tuesday morning, October 31, 2024, a man was critically injured while courageously fending off an attempted carjacking near a shopping center in Temple Hills, Maryland. The attempted carjacking and ensuing gunfire led to a swift police response and the temporary lockdown of two nearby schools, Crossland High School and Thurgood Marshall Middle School, for over two hours. As the police investigation unfolded and two suspects were apprehended, a third suspect managed to escape, leaving the community tense and sparking concern over rising carjacking incidents across Prince George’s County.
The attempted carjacking and shooting unfolded at approximately 9:38 a.m. in the parking lot of the AutoZone Auto Parts store at 7057 Allentown Road, a commercial area frequented by local residents and a hub of community activity. Initially, reports suggested that an attempted robbery had taken place at the AutoZone; however, Prince George’s County Police soon clarified that the incident involved a violent carjacking attempt in the parking lot, leaving the victim critically injured but in stable condition. The incident remains under investigation, with one suspect still at large.
The Incident: Morning Turned Tragic
According to police statements and witness accounts, the victim had parked his car at the shopping center and was preparing to enter the AutoZone when he was approached by three suspects. The assailants reportedly attempted to seize his vehicle, and an altercation quickly ensued. The victim, whose identity remains undisclosed, fought back to defend his vehicle, but the confrontation escalated, and one of the assailants pulled out a firearm. In the midst of the struggle, the victim was shot once, sustaining injuries that required immediate medical attention.
Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene as gunfire erupted. “It was just a regular morning,” said Maria Johnson, an employee at a nearby store who witnessed the incident. “I heard shouting, then a loud bang. People were running in all directions. It was terrifying.”
Prince George’s County Police arrived at the scene minutes after receiving the 911 call and promptly began administering first aid to the injured man. Paramedics soon transported him to a nearby hospital, where he remains in critical but stable condition. Police confirmed that while the man sustained serious injuries, his swift transport to the hospital likely saved his life.
Arrests and the Hunt for the Third Suspect
Two of the suspects were apprehended shortly after the shooting as police combed through the vicinity of the shopping center and surrounding streets. Prince George’s County Police have not released the suspects’ identities, but both are reportedly young men in their late teens or early twenties. They are currently in custody and face charges related to attempted carjacking, assault with a deadly weapon, and potentially more severe charges as the investigation progresses.
However, a third suspect remains at large, and police have confirmed that they are actively pursuing leads to locate and apprehend the individual. Witnesses provided descriptions, and surveillance footage from nearby businesses is being reviewed to assist in identifying and tracking the suspect. The ongoing search for the third assailant has heightened concerns within the community, and authorities are urging residents to exercise caution.
“Our team is working diligently to locate the remaining suspect,” stated Sgt. Lisa Turner of the Prince George’s County Police Department. “We are using all resources available, including our partnership with local businesses, community tips, and surveillance footage to ensure that the individual is brought to justice.”
School Lockdowns and Community Safety Concerns
Given the proximity of the crime scene to Crossland High School and Thurgood Marshall Middle School, both institutions were promptly placed on lockdown as a safety precaution. Crossland High School, located directly across Temple Hill Road from the shopping center, and Thurgood Marshall Middle School, situated approximately five minutes away by car, both implemented emergency lockdown procedures. Administrators and staff worked quickly to secure students within classrooms, ensuring that no one was allowed in or out of the buildings until police determined it was safe.
At Crossland High School, Principal Erica Barnes praised the faculty and students for maintaining calm during the lockdown. “Our staff and students did exactly as they were trained to do. While it’s never easy to implement these protocols, we’re committed to their safety and followed our procedures precisely,” Barnes shared. The school notified parents about the lockdown via text alerts and emails, keeping them informed as the situation developed.
Lockdowns were lifted shortly after 12:30 p.m. once police assured that the immediate area was secured and deemed safe. Parents and guardians expressed both relief and frustration, as many have voiced increasing concerns about safety in the area, especially considering recent reports of rising violent crimes and carjackings across Prince George’s County. “We shouldn’t have to worry about our kids’ safety just because they’re near a shopping center,” said Angela Simmons, a parent of a Crossland High School student. “It’s terrifying, and something has to be done to stop these crimes.”
Rise of Carjacking Incidents in Prince George’s County
This incident is part of a concerning trend in Prince George’s County and other areas within the Washington, D.C. metropolitan region, where carjacking incidents have surged in recent years. Law enforcement reports indicate that carjacking has become an increasingly prevalent crime, often involving young offenders who target parked or idling vehicles in public spaces like shopping centers, gas stations, and even residential driveways.
Prince George’s County Police Chief Malik Aziz has previously addressed this issue, stating that the department is actively implementing strategies to curb carjacking rates. These measures include increasing patrols in high-traffic and vulnerable areas, deploying specialized units to target known hotspots, and working with neighboring jurisdictions to address cross-border incidents. “Our community’s safety is our top priority, and we are committed to taking every measure to address and reduce violent crime in Prince George’s County,” Chief Aziz stated at a recent community meeting.
Community groups, neighborhood associations, and local nonprofits are also taking steps to increase awareness and encourage residents to adopt preventive measures. Several organizations have distributed informational flyers outlining safety tips, including advice on avoiding isolated areas, locking doors immediately upon entering a vehicle, and remaining alert when parked or waiting in public areas.
Community Reaction and Demand for Action
The violent nature of the incident has amplified calls for change within Temple Hills and neighboring communities. Local residents have expressed both grief for the victim and frustration with the rising threat of carjackings and gun violence. Prince George’s County Councilmember Jolene Ivey, who represents Temple Hills, shared a message of solidarity with the community. “We must unite as a community to address these issues,” Ivey stated in a press release. “This incident is a reminder of the work we have ahead to ensure that our neighborhoods are safe for everyone.”
Community meetings have been scheduled in the coming days to address residents’ concerns, share safety resources, and discuss long-term strategies for reducing crime. Organizations such as the Temple Hills Community Association (THCA) are encouraging residents to participate in these meetings to share their perspectives and contribute to solutions. THCA President Roberto Sanchez voiced the need for a multifaceted approach to community safety. “We need to address this issue on all fronts—law enforcement, community support, mental health resources, and programs for our youth,” Sanchez said. “Only by working together can we make a meaningful difference.”
Law Enforcement and Local Business Response
In response to the shooting, the Prince George’s County Police Department has pledged to increase patrols around shopping centers and other high-traffic areas. Captain Raymond Stokes of the Prince George’s County Police Department explained that the incident has reinforced the department’s commitment to strengthening community relations and bolstering public safety.
Local businesses, too, have expressed their concerns and have taken steps to increase security measures. Store owners in the shopping center where the shooting occurred are considering additional safety precautions, such as enhancing surveillance, increasing lighting in parking areas, and working with police to improve real-time response mechanisms.
“We want our customers and employees to feel safe here,” said Melanie Cruz, the manager of the AutoZone where the incident took place. “Our goal is to provide a safe environment, and we’re actively working with law enforcement to make that happen.”
Safety Resources and Community Support
Following the incident, the Prince George’s County Police Department has encouraged residents to take advantage of local safety resources. They are urging people to report suspicious activity, stay vigilant in public spaces, and share safety tips within their communities. Additionally, mental health and counseling services are being made available to those affected by the shooting and lockdowns.
Local support groups are also reaching out to the victim’s family and others impacted by the traumatic events of the day. The Prince George’s Victim Services Center is coordinating support efforts, including providing crisis counseling, grief support, and resources for individuals affected by violent crime. “Our thoughts are with the victim and their family,” said Michelle Garrett, the center’s director. “We’re here to support them and help the community heal after this traumatic incident.”
Moving Forward: Community Resilience
As Temple Hills works to recover from the incident, the broader community continues to grapple with concerns over safety and crime prevention. Residents, business owners, educators, and local officials are uniting around a shared goal of creating a safer and more resilient Temple Hills. Many hope that by fostering collaboration between law enforcement, schools, and community organizations, a comprehensive strategy for violence prevention and public safety can be developed.
The Prince George’s County Police Department has assured the public that they will continue to provide updates on the investigation and will keep the community informed as they search for the remaining suspect. For now, residents are urged to remain cautious and vigilant, particularly as the holiday season approaches, bringing an increase in public activity and potential criminal targets.
Ultimately, Temple Hills is a resilient community that, despite the trauma of the day, remains committed to unity and mutual support in the face of adversity.
