St. Paul police investigate string of carjackings

St. Paul police are investigating a string carjackings over the last few weeks.

Thieves have targeted several parts of the city, including along Grand Avenue.

Police believe the crimes are connected. In many cases, a teenager walks up to the car owner and asks for directions then takes the vehicle according to police.

"Sometimes it's just simply get out of the car and sometimes it's intimating a hand gun," St. Paul Police Sgt. Mike Ernster said. "Sometimes it's showing a handgun and then threatening them with physical violence and taking their vehicle."

Some of the stolen cars have been used in other crimes. Police have made one arrest but are looking for others involved, specifically a group between the ages of 12 and 22. 

"Serious injuries we have not sustained and we hope that would continue, that's why we ask people to cooperate when this type of thing is asked of them to give up their vehicle," said Ernster. "Please think of their own saftey and report it to the police right away so we can get on it and hopefully find the people who are responsible."