YRP releases video of attempted carjacking

York Regional Police have released surveillance footage showing a violent struggle between a victim and two would-be car thieves in Markham as they search for the suspects.

The incident occurred in a parking garage near Enterprise Boulevard and Birchmount Road around 8 p.m. on Aug. 31.

In the video released by police, a Mercedes SUV can be seen driving into the parking garage, followed by a white Honda Civic. The driver of the SUV then turns a corner and backs into a parking space, with the sedan quickly mirroring the movement and parking next to her.

Next, we see the woman in the parking lot, backing away from two suspects, dressed all in black.

According to police, the victim had just parked when she was approached by two men who demanded the keys to her car.

In the video, the suspects tackle the woman to the ground as she tries to flee. The video then cuts to a frame of one of the suspects running away from the victim’s car.

Police said the suspect eventually fled the area without a vehicle. The victim was not seriously injured.

The first suspect is described as a man with a slim build. He was wearing a black hoodie with a hood, black pants, a black mask and black sneakers. The second suspect is described as a dark man with a slim build, curly hair and a tattoo on his right forearm. He was wearing a black hoodie with a hood, a white T-shirt, black pants and white sneakers.

The suspect vehicle is described as a white 2020 Honda Civic with Ontario license plate CLCK150.

Police are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact investigators.

YRP also published a number of tips to prevent carjacking:

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times, even in places where you feel safe

• Stay vigilant in public garages, parking lots, gas stations and controlled intersections

• Keep your car keys and house keys on separate key rings

• Invest in GPS tracking or vehicle tracking services

• Do not leave your vehicle unattended

• If you are the victim of a carjacking, avoid challenging the suspects. Gather the best descriptions you can and call 9-1-1 when it is safe to do so.