South Bend, IN — Two South Bend teenagers were taken into custody early Friday morning after an armed carjacking triggered a police pursuit across the city, according to local authorities. The incident began shortly after police received a call reporting a stolen vehicle in the pre-dawn hours.
Carjacking Reported Around 2:30 A.M.
The South Bend Police Department said officers were dispatched around 2:30 a.m. following a report of a car theft involving two individuals. When officers arrived, the victim explained that he had agreed to give two men a ride. During the trip, one of the passengers allegedly pulled out a handgun and demanded the vehicle.
According to the victim’s statement, the suspects quickly took control of the car and fled, leaving him behind to contact law enforcement. Officers immediately began searching the surrounding areas for the stolen vehicle.
Officers Locate Stolen Car Near Lincoln Way West
Within a short time, police spotted the vehicle driving near the intersection of Lincoln Way West and Wilber Street, an area not far from where the carjacking was originally reported. Officers attempted to stop the vehicle, but the driver refused to pull over, prompting a police chase through South Bend.
Authorities say the pursuit covered several blocks as officers followed the stolen car, monitoring the suspects’ movements while ensuring public safety during the incident.
Pursuit Ends on Taylor Street With Arrests
The chase came to an end on Taylor Street, where police successfully stopped the vehicle and detained the individuals inside. Both teens were taken into custody without major incident.
Investigators later identified the driver as **18-year-old Rodney Turner Jr. ** and the passenger as 18-year-old Damarion Hipskind.
Felony and Misdemeanor Charges Filed
Authorities noted that both suspects now face criminal charges, though the allegations against Turner are significantly more severe.
Rodney Turner Jr., 18, has been charged with five felony offenses, including:
- Robbery
- Resisting Law Enforcement
- Auto Theft
- Intimidation (Two Counts)
Turner also faces additional misdemeanor charges, including:
- Resisting Law Enforcement
- Theft
- Criminal Mischief
His alleged role as the gunman, as well as the driver during the police pursuit, contributed to the seriousness of the charges filed against him.
Meanwhile, 18-year-old Damarion Hipskind has been charged with a misdemeanor count of Resisting Law Enforcement for his involvement in the incident. Police have not indicated whether further charges may be considered as the investigation continues.
Investigation Continues
Authorities are continuing to review evidence from the scene, including statements from the victim and the suspects. Police have not released details regarding the handgun reportedly used in the carjacking but confirmed that the victim was not physically harmed during the incident.
The South Bend Police Department has emphasized its ongoing commitment to responding quickly to violent crimes and pursuing individuals who pose a threat to public safety.
More information is expected to be released as the case progresses through the court system.
What Do You Think?
Incidents like this raise important questions about youth crime, gun violence, and policing. Do you believe enough is being done to prevent armed carjackings in South Bend? Share your thoughts in the comments!
