In a high-stakes pursuit spanning multiple counties, law enforcement officers successfully apprehended a carjacking suspect identified as 62-year-old Francis Jerome Hicks from Lexington Park, Maryland. The incident occurred on the morning of April 9, triggering a rapid response from both Prince George’s and Charles County police.
The chase began when officers were alerted to a carjacking in progress around 9:35 a.m., near Berry Road and Bonnie Lane. Hicks, fleeing in a vehicle reported stolen, was initially spotted heading north on Indian Head Highway. In a desperate attempt to evade capture, he executed a U-turn, speeding back east on Berry Road.
Anticipating his route, officers had strategically placed stop sticks, which successfully punctured a tire on Hicks’ vehicle. Despite the damage, he continued his flight toward White Plains. His erratic escape route led him to a local gas station where the situation escalated. Hicks rammed a police cruiser, reversed to strike another, and then rammed the first cruiser again.
Officers at the scene executed a containment maneuver, which brought the vehicle to a halt and enabled them to apprehend Hicks without further incident. Following his arrest, the Charles County Sheriff’s Office secured a warrant charging Hicks with first-degree assault, second-degree assault, and multiple traffic violations. Officer Hunsinger, who is leading the investigation, confirmed that the arrest was effected cleanly and efficiently.
This incident underscores the risks law enforcement officers face and their commitment to public safety. The pursuit not only involved officers from different counties but also required quick coordination and precise action to prevent any harm to the community.
As the investigation continues, authorities have praised the effective use of stop sticks and tactical vehicle maneuvers which prevented any civilian casualties or significant property damage beyond the involved police cruisers.
