APD praises 83-year-old victim

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Two 17-year-olds are each charged with eight felonies for the carjacking of a woman and police chase through two counties.

Myles Robinson and Efrin Regalado were arrested shortly after a car chase ended in Williamson County. An 83-year-old woman was getting into her car and that is when police believe she was attacked from behind by Robinson and Regalado at 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday. Reports indicate the suspects took her purse, keys and were about to getaway in her car when a bystander jumped in to help.

"She is courageous also to come forward," said Lt. Allen McClure, with the Austin Police Department's Violent Crimes Unit. "Often times people come forward will see things occurring and don’t have the courage to assist."

Police said the two tried to stop the thieves, but the men drove off instead. Through OnSTAR GPS tracking service, police were able to locate the accused thieves in Williamson County hours later. An officer spotted him and the chase began. When it came to an end, several other cars were damaged, but no one was seriously hurt.

"The act that they engaged in is a cowardly act, and they were two criminals who basically preyed upon a victim who was elderly, and they perceived her as being vulnerable," said Lt. McClure.

One of the suspects confessed to the crime.

Police want shoppers to exercise safety, no matter which shopping area they visit this holiday season.

"We always want to encourage the public to be aware of their surroundings at all times," said Lt. McClure. "They should also be aware of any distractions they may have like talking on the cell phone."

"I guess it would be better to be aware of your surroundings because there is kinda someone always lurking and waiting and watching for someone who is not paying attention," said Diane Dewan, who says she will be more careful when shopping, even during the day.

Barton Creek Square issued this reminder to everyone who shops at the mall during this extremely busy time of the year:

As the holiday shopping season is one of our busiest times, we adjust our mall security and local police presence in order to compensate for the increased traffic and our extended mall hours during this time. Additionally, we work closely with the Austin Police Department to further enhance our security program.

Simon Property Group in conjunction with retail industry experts and law enforcement officials developed the following safe shopping tips to help ensure shopper's general safety this holiday season:

When parking, be sure to lock your car and take your keys with you.

• Do not leave valuables in plain view in your car. Lock the valuables and all packages in the trunk or out of sight.
  
• When shopping after dark, ask a Simon Mall Security Guard, a friend or family member to accompany you to your car.
  
• Park in a well-lit area. Make note of where your car is parked and what mall entrance you use.
  
• Have your keys ready in your hand when leaving the shopping center to return to your car.
  
• Look inside and under your car before getting inside. Lock your doors promptly.
  
• Keep valuables and money in a pocket or small purse with a strap that can be worn across your body.
  
• Keep your purse closed and secured. Do not put it down anywhere.
  
• Be discreet when paying for merchandise if you are carrying a large sum of cash.
  
• Stay alert to what is happening around you. If you notice anything that appears suspicious, report it immediately to mall security or a store employee.