MOUNT DORA CARJACKER NABBED WITHIN 2 HOURS OF VICTIMIZING ELDERLY WOMAN

ABOVE: Mugshot of arrested suspect, De'Angelo McKnight

UPDATE 11/25/19: The suspect arrested is De'Angelo McKnight, 19, of Mount Dora.  He was charged with carjacking, assault or battery on a person 65 years of age or older, petty theft, burglary of an unoccupied dwelling and criminal use of personal identification information.
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It was a hideous crime.  At approximately 3 p;m this afternoon a 93-year old woman was returning to her car in the parking lot of the T.J. Maxx and Hobby Lobby Shopping Center on the southwest corner of U.S. 441 and Eudora Road in Mount Dora. 

As she neared her car, she was approached by a male suspect who knocked her to the ground and took off with her purse, phone and Lincoln SUV.   With the teamwork of Mount Dora Police, Eustis Police and Lake County Sheriff’s Office, a suspect would be in custody less than two hours later when the stolen vehicle was spotted and five occupants bailed from the SUV near State Road 44 in Eustis.  A foot-chase ensued and law enforcement apprehended all of them.

The elderly victim had lacerations on her head and was transported to the hospital.  

Mount Dora Assistant Police Chief Mike Fewless said MDPD would request the State Attorney’s Office seek the maximum penalty for the crimes.  

This is the time of year when crime spikes and shoppers need to be extra vigilant of their surroundings.  

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Here are some safety tips to remember:

1. At night, park in well-lit areas. 
2. Have your car keys in your hand before you leave the store or restaurant. 
3. Walk to your car with other people.
4. Do not be distracted while leaving a store or entering your car.
5. Never leave purses or bags on or behind your car seat. Place them in locked trunk.
6. Do not fight someone over your purse.  Your life is more important. ​
7. Lock your cars doors.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, this month, click here.  Discover the area's online entertainment calendar here. Also download the area's free mobile app.  ​ ​

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