16-year-old arrested in Atwater carjacking

A 16-year-old is in custody in connection with a carjacking Saturday evening in Atwater, police reported.

Police responded to the area of Ralston Park around 10 p.m. after receiving a call about a carjacking, Lt. Sam Joseph told the Merced Sun-Star.

The female victim reported she was approached by two males, one of whom brandished a firearm. The males demanded her car and personal items, Joseph said.

The woman handed over her cellphone and car keys, and fled the scene. The woman called 911 after the incident.

A short time later, police located and detained three people, two of whom matched the description of the robbers. The victim identified the 16-year-old as a suspect. Joseph said the other two people were released, pending further investigation.

The 16-year-old was booked into Merced County juvenile hall. The victim’s car was recovered.

Police are asking anyone with information to call Detective Matthew Vierra at (209) 357-6395. Tips are kept confidential and you can remain anonymous.

This story was originally published November 23, 2014 at 12:19 PM with the headline "16-year-old arrested in Atwater carjacking."