Orlando police search for carjacking suspect who side-swiped officer's patrol car

ORLANDO, Fla. - The Orlando Police Department is searching for a carjacking suspect.  

Officers say someone stole a white 2014 Mercedes-Benz sedan on Lake Baldwin Lane on Sunday night. Police say the victim was held at gunpoint by a suspect who was wearing a mask that covered the bottom of his face. For the second time in just a few weeks, incidents of crime in Baldwin Park have put residents on high alert.

"It’s scary! It’s scary!" said Louis Berk, who lives in the neighborhood. "We didn’t hear anything last night, but this is typically a quiet neighborhood."

Investigators said the accused carjacker also took an iPhone, cash and golf clubs. The car was later spotted by police.

"Shortly after midnight, OPD units saw the suspect vehicle on the west side of Orlando," said Orlando Police Sgt. David Baker.

Officers lost him, blaming driving conditions from wet weather and his erratic maneuvers. They eventually spotted the car parking at the Timber Sound apartments. The suspect then drove off again.

"The vehicle fled from officers on scene and sideswiped one of the police cars that was arriving on scene."

The car was abandoned nearby on Raleigh Street. There is still no suspect in custody. 

At least one apartment complex in Baldwin Park sent out an alert Monday about an increase in vehicle break-ins. They say cars have been left unlocked in the area.  This comes a week after police say a woman was grabbed running around Lake Baldwin. 

"You never know if something like that happens, now you have to look over your shoulder. It’s definitely scary to think about," said Berk.

A K-9 unit was called in, but the suspect was not found. He is described as a black man in his twenties.

Anyone with information in the case is asked to call the Orlando Police Department or Crimeline at 877-423-TIPS (8477).