Watch Surveillance video at the bottom
Surveillance Video Captures Car Theft While Owner Pays for Gas
Police are seeking the public’s help in identifying a suspect who stole a vehicle while its owner was inside a gas station paying for fuel in Red Bank on Friday night.
The bold theft occurred around 8:25 p.m. at a Shell station located at the intersection of Newman Springs Road and Shrewsbury Avenue. Surveillance footage from the scene shows the suspect exiting the passenger side of a white BMW X5 with Pennsylvania plates, which had pulled up in front of the victim’s car as the owner was paying for gas.
According to Red Bank Police, Sgt. John Camarca reviewed the video, which shows the suspect crawling along the side of the victim’s car while the owner stands behind it, initially unaware of the situation. The victim then walks toward the station’s attendant to pay, but as he does, the suspect enters the vehicle.
Red Bank Police Chief Mike Frazee described the tense moment, stating, “The owner quickly realized what was happening and ran toward the car to confront the suspect. A brief struggle followed, but the owner backed away, fearing the suspect might be armed.”
The suspect, along with the BMW, fled the scene, speeding west on Newman Springs Road.
Chief Frazee urged the public to stay alert and report any information that could assist the investigation. “We encourage everyone to be mindful of their surroundings,” he said. “Anyone with details is urged to contact the Red Bank Police Department.”
