An attempted carjacking on the George Washington Bridge turned into a bizarre arrest when one of the suspects trapped himself inside a construction shed, Port Authority police reported Tuesday.
The chaotic events unfolded around 8:30 p.m. Saturday when a car carrying two men collided with a woman’s vehicle as she crossed the Hudson River span into Manhattan.
A Frightening Encounter
After the crash, the two suspects abandoned their damaged car mid-bridge and approached the woman’s vehicle. One suspect, armed with a handgun, demanded she unlock her doors. Acting quickly, the woman locked her car and refused to comply.
Unable to gain entry, the men fled the scene, with one tossing a backpack off the bridge as they ran. The woman was unharmed, but the terrifying encounter left her shaken.
The Chase and Arrest
Port Authority police pursued the suspects, ultimately apprehending 32-year-old Frederick Antonio Castillo on the New Jersey side of the bridge. Castillo had inadvertently locked himself inside a construction shed while attempting to evade capture, according to sources.
Officers recovered a handgun with an extended magazine and hollow-point bullets discarded on the bridge.
Charges Filed
Castillo now faces multiple charges, including attempted robbery, possession of a loaded firearm, possession of a high-capacity magazine, and possession of hollow-point ammunition.
His accomplice remains at large as of Tuesday, and authorities are actively seeking information on their whereabouts.
A Close Call
Authorities lauded the quick thinking of the woman who locked her car doors, potentially preventing a more dangerous outcome.
“This incident could have ended much worse, but thanks to the victim’s composure and our officers’ quick response, we were able to make an arrest and ensure her safety,” a Port Authority spokesperson said.
Investigators continue to search for the second suspect while urging anyone with information to contact the Port Authority Police Department.
