Police search for vehicles involved in violent carjacking

ATLANTA - The search is on for two men who used what appeared to be an innocent car accident to commit a violent carjacking and robbery.

According to Atlanta Police, it happened at the intersection of Ralph David Abernathy Boulevard and Murphy Avenue at around 11:45 p.m. February 2.

Investigators said a black and white Crown Victoria rear-ended a man's car. When the man got out to check the damage, officers said one of the robbers opened fire, striking the victim twice.

"This guy was just driving along and got rear-ended and you know, just thought it was a normal accident," said APD Officer Lisa Bender.

The men stole the victim's wallet and then left the scene--one in the Crown Victoria and one in the victim's black Toyota Camry.

When police arrived on the scene, they found the victim lying face down on the curb with two gunshot wounds to his torso. He was transported to Grady Memorial Hospital in stable condition and has since been released.

The next day, police said someone in a tan Toyota Avalon used the victim's credit card at a gas station on Donnelly Avenue.

To avoid being a victim, Officer Bender said anyone who feels something is not quite right after an accident can take a few simple steps.

"First of all, you're going to give 911 a call, 'cause you want the police to come out. If you're not feeling comfortable in that situation, you can let 911 know I don't feel comfortable. I'm going to move to a more well-lit area or I'm going to move to another location and wait on the police," said Bender.

Anyone with information about the carjacking or who recognizes either car is asked to call the Atlanta Police Department or Crime Stoppers.