SAN JOSÉ, Calif. — A brutal carjacking near Sandpebble Drive and Vista Park Drive on January 12, 2025, has led to the arrest of eight suspects, including an 18-year-old and seven juveniles, according to the San Jose Police Department.
The San José Police Department reported that around 1:08 a.m., seven males used their vehicles to trap an adult male victim in a park before violently assaulting him and stealing his car.
The vehicle was later found near Valleyhaven Way and Stoneyhaven Way. A coordinated investigation led to arrests in San José and Livermore, where Livermore police assisted in apprehending one suspect. Hector Sanchez, 18, was booked into Santa Clara County Main Jail; the juveniles were booked into Juvenile Hall, police stated.
(Source: San José Police Department)
A violent carjacking in California has led to the arrest of eight suspects after a coordinated group attack left one victim injured and shaken, authorities announced Tuesday.
The incident occurred late Sunday night in a residential neighborhood of Stockton, where police say a man was ambushed while attempting to enter his vehicle. According to investigators, the suspects — ranging in age from teenagers to young adults — surrounded the victim, assaulted him, and forcibly took his car.
Police described the attack as “coordinated and aggressive,” with multiple individuals allegedly working together to overpower the victim. Witnesses in the area reported hearing shouting and a struggle before the suspects fled the scene in the stolen vehicle.
“The victim was clearly targeted and overwhelmed by a group that acted like a unit,” said Lt. Maria Gonzalez of the Stockton Police Department. “It was fast, violent, and clearly planned.”
The victim sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was treated at a local hospital. Authorities have not released his identity but say he is recovering and cooperating with investigators.
Following the carjacking, law enforcement launched a citywide manhunt, using surveillance footage and license plate tracking technology to trace the stolen vehicle. Within 24 hours, officers located the car at a residence tied to one of the suspects.
That discovery led to a series of arrests, culminating in eight individuals being taken into custody. Police say several of the suspects have prior arrests and are believed to be affiliated with a local gang.
Charges include carjacking, robbery, conspiracy, and assault with a deadly weapon. More charges could follow as the investigation continues.
The attack has stirred concern in the community, with residents expressing fear over the brazenness of the crime.
“It’s terrifying to think a group can just do this in the middle of a neighborhood,” said Danielle Ramos, a nearby resident. “We need more patrols, and we need to know our streets are safe.”
Local officials praised police for their quick action and reassured the public that violent crimes like this will be pursued aggressively.
“This type of criminal behavior will not be tolerated,” said Stockton Mayor Kevin Lincoln. “We will continue to support our law enforcement in bringing those responsible to justice.”
Police believe the group may be linked to other recent thefts and carjackings in the area. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward as the investigation widens.
For now, all eight suspects remain in custody as prosecutors prepare formal charges. The case is expected to go before a judge later this week.
