Authorities in Miami County, Kansas, are actively searching for a suspect involved in a violent carjacking that left a man with a severe head injury. The Miami County Sheriff’s Office is urging the public to assist in identifying the perpetrator.
The incident occurred in the early hours of June 22, around 3:45 a.m., near Highway 69 and 232nd Street.
What Happened: Victim Injured While Helping Family
According to a statement posted on the sheriff’s office’s official Facebook page, deputies responded to the scene and discovered a man suffering from a serious head trauma.
Investigators learned the victim had driven his black 2004 GMC Envoy to assist a family member whose car had broken down on the side of the highway. While providing aid, an unidentified man suddenly approached and stole the GMC.
When the victim attempted to stop the theft, he was either struck by or thrown from the stolen vehicle. He was transported to a local hospital and is currently in critical condition.
Suspect Description and Vehicle Information
The suspect is described as a tall white male with a tattoo on one wrist, possibly the left. At the time of the incident, he was wearing:
- Black or gray pants
- A black t-shirt
- A black baseball cap
The suspect was last seen driving the GMC Envoy northbound on Highway 69. Law enforcement agencies throughout the region have been notified about the stolen vehicle.
Public Assistance Needed
Investigators are appealing to the public for help and are specifically asking for any information related to:
- Sightings of any individuals walking near 69 Highway and 232nd Street between 2:15 a.m. and 3:45 a.m.
- Witness accounts of the theft or the injured victim
- Observations of a silver Mercury Grand Marquis parked at the 69 Highway off-ramp at 247th Street during the same time window. Authorities have been unable to contact the registered owner.
How to Report Tips
Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact the Sheriff’s Office Investigations Division at (913) 294-3232 ext. 7157 and ask for Detective Peuser. Alternatively, anonymous tips can be shared via the TIPS Hotline at (816) 474-TIPS (8477).
This violent carjacking has left a man in critical condition and a community on alert. The Miami County Sheriff’s Office is diligently working to track down the suspect and recover the stolen vehicle.
Community cooperation is crucial in resolving this case and bringing the responsible individual to justice.