Woman robbed at gunpoint, vehicle stolen in Old Cloverdale

MONTGOMERY, AL (WSFA) - A woman who was getting items out of her vehicle late Wednesday evening was robbed and her vehicle stolen, according to the Montgomery Police Department.

The incident happened around 9:20 p.m. in the 3000 block of Cloverdale Road.

"It's very sad that that happens to anyone in this day and age especially to like a defenseless person like that. Like a lot of people work very hard for what they have and for someone to come up and use like strength or just means of violence to take that from them I think that's very sad," said Deandre Beck, who works in the area.

MPD Spokeswoman Capt. Regina Duckett said the woman was approached by an unknown man who had a gun. The suspect demanded the victim's money and then grabbed her purse. That caused  the woman to fall, Duckett said, causing minor injuries.

"As a young woman that's actually really really terrifying. You wouldn't think that that would happen to you but you know I think it's important especially for us women to be aware and cautious of you know where you're at and what's going on around you and have some protection," said Landyn Bassett, who also works in the area of the incident.

The suspect then stole the woman's vehicle and fled the scene.

"I carry pepper spray. I wish I had more. Especially now. But I do carry pepper spray and before I ever get out of the car whether it's daylight or night I'm always looking you know to my left and my right behind me making sure you know if anybody looks suspicious. I'm an overly cautious person," Bassett said.

Duckett said authorities are looking for a gray 2004 Chevy Trailblazer with Alabama license plate number P9111.

The victim was transported to a local hospital for treatment, Duckett said.

No arrests have been made in this ongoing investigation, but police are asking anyone with information on the vehicle's location to call 911.

Crimestoppers' Safety Tips - Avoid Carjacking 

1. Look, listen, and trust your instincts when approaching your car. Most attempted or 
    successful carjackings happen within 5 miles of the victim's place of residence.

2. 92% of carjackings happen to victims who are alone. Look under, around and inside 
    your car.

3. Keep your head up, ears open, and eyes peeled when you're at or returning to your car.
    Don't ignore your gut feeling if you sense that something is wrong.

4. If you see someone standing around in the parking lot, or you merely sense something 
    is not right, don't proceed to your car. Return to or stay in a safe place.

5. Don't allow children or packages to distract from your alertness. Make it a habit to 
    look around before taking out or putting anything or anyone into the car.

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