By KRWG News
Las Cruces – Las Cruces Police are continuing to look for the suspect believed to be responsible for carjacking a vehicle, at gunpoint, this past weekend.
A Magistrate Court warrant has been issued for the arrest of Marcos Barela, 23, whose last known address was 1289 Wingate Court in Las Cruces. Barela faces charges of armed robbery and auto theft in the incident that occurred Saturday morning.
Shortly before noon on Saturday, Nov. 5, Las Cruces Police were called to 1525 E. Foster Rd. after 2000 Chevrolet Tahoe was stolen, at gunpoint, from its owner. Police learned that the 22-year-old owner of the Tahoe was retrieving an item from the vehicle when he was approached by a man and woman.
The man first asked the vehicle's owner for a ride to a nearby park and then pulled out a black handgun and demanded the keys to the vehicle. The armed suspect took the keys and both he and his accomplice, both described as Hispanic, drove off in the Tahoe.
On Sunday evening officers were called to a central Las Cruces residence where they located the Chevy Tahoe and questioned a woman who was seen with its driver, identified as Barela.
Barela is said to have fled the area on foot and his whereabouts are still unknown. Barela is described as 5-feet-9-inches tall and weighs approximately 140 pounds. He has a short Mohawk haircut, and multiple tattoos on his arms and neck.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Marcos Barela is asked to call 911 immediately or Las Cruces Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Tips can also be sent via text message to LCTIPS (528477).