SAN DIEGO - A man is behind bars after trying to car jack a Lyft driver in the heart of the Gaslamp District Saturday.
Police said 28-year-old Anthony Hernandez approached the driver from behind as he was entering his vehicle at about 3 a.m. on the 800 block of 6th avenue. Hernandez asked the driver if he wanted to buy a phone. The driver said no.
Police said Hernandez then pushed the driver into the vehicle and demanded his cell phone and wallet. The driver complied. Hernandez reportedly threatened the driver verbally and acted as if he had a knife.
Hernandez then pushed the victim into the car and told him to put the keys in the ignition. After the driver complied once again, Hernandez tried to start the car, San Diego Police officer Tony Martinez said. He failed though, when the driver took the keys and ran away.
The driver was able to flag down a nearby bike officer but Hernandez fled the scene.
Hernandez was detained shortly after fleeing by a group of off duty security guards. Police brought him back to the driver, who positively identified him as the suspect.
Hernandez was booked into jail and charged with robbery and attempted carjacking.
