SWATARA TOWNSHIP, Pa.–Police are searching for a man who attempted to carjack a woman in Swatara Township on Friday.
It happened near the Walmart along the 6500 block of Grayson Road.
According to police, a man entered a woman’s car in the parking lot and threatened her by stating that he had something that would giver her HIV. He then demanded to be driven away from the store.
Further investigation revealed that the man had just attempted to commit a theft inside of Walmart and was in the process of running away. The driver of the vehicle followed the man’s orders and drove off of Walmart’s property.
When the vehicle stopped at a red light on Grayson Road, a female passenger exited the car, produced a handgun, and demanded that the man get out of the car. He exited and began to struggle with the female for control of the gun. The gun went off at least one time and the man ran from the scene. It is unknown if the suspect was shot; both female victims were unharmed.
The two females returned to Walmart to wait for police. Investigation revealed that the female was in legal possession of the gun and had a permit to carry a concealed weapon.
The Pennsylvania State Police responded to assist with a helicopter. Summit Search & Rescue responded to assist with a tracking Bloodhound. Lower Paxton Police and Harrisburg City Police also provided assistance during the ensuing investigation.
The suspect was positively identified as 45-year-old Michael Ortiz.
A warrant is currently being requested for his arrest. He is being charged with Robbery of a motor vehicle, Kidnapping, and multiple other offenses.
Anyone with information is asked to call Swatara Police at 717-564-2550.
