Resident in South Dallas shot during carjacking, police say

A victim is recuperating after sustaining a gunshot wound to the leg during a carjacking incident in South Dallas overnight, according to police.

Dallas Police responded to a report in the 8400 block of Willoughby Boulevard around 12:45 a.m. on Saturday.

Based on their initial investigation, authorities stated that unidentified armed individuals approached the victim’s vehicle. In an attempt to flee, the victim brandished a firearm at one of the suspects, but one of the suspects discharged their weapon, injuring the victim’s leg.

Subsequently, the suspects seized the victim’s car, and the injured individual was transported to a local hospital in stable condition.

Neighbor Efren Escalante recounted that he and his family emerged from their residence upon hearing the disturbance. He described hearing several gunshots and witnessing the wounded individual hobbling back to her apartment.

Escalante emphasized concerns about the safety of their neighborhood, citing a previous car theft incident his family experienced a couple of years ago. He expressed heightened vigilance, particularly during nighttime hours, acknowledging the unpredictable nature of such events.

Another neighbor, Chris Veasey, echoed similar sentiments regarding nighttime safety concerns. He remarked on the challenges of safeguarding personal property and the perceived inadequacy of security measures, noting the inconsistent closure of the apartment complex gate, despite its presence.

Veasey highlighted the victim’s diligent work ethic, often returning home late from work. He emphasized the importance of additional police patrols to enhance neighborhood security, suggesting various strategies to augment law enforcement presence, such as periodic parking nearby. Additionally, Veasey disclosed his personal security measures, including motion-activated cameras aimed at his vehicle.