Democratic congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon was carjacked at gunpoint in Philadelphia on Wednesday. She remained unharmed after the incident.
The office of congresswoman released an official statement saying “(On) Wednesday afternoon, at around 2:45 p.m., Congresswoman Scanlon was carjacked at gunpoint in FDR Park following a meeting at that location.”
“The Congresswoman was physically unharmed. She thanks the Philadelphia Police Department for their swift response, and appreciates the efforts of both the Sergeant at Arms in D.C. and her local police department for coordinating with Philly PD to ensure her continued safety,” the statement read.
The vehicle was recovered from Delaware belonging to Mary Gay Scanlon and five people were taken into custody on suspicions.
Senior corporal Jason Hatchel from the Delaware state police stated that the vehicle belonging to the congresswoman was recovered in Newark close to a public gym.
Democratic congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon has been serving the House since 2018. Her districts include the suburbs of Philadelphia and the state.
She currently resides on the House Judiciary Committee along with the House Administration Committee and the House Rules Committee.
According to the statement released from the Philadelphia police department said “US Congress Woman Mary Gay Scanlon was walking to her car when she was approached. … The armed males approached the victim and demanded the keys to her vehicle — a blue 2017 Acura MDX. The victim handed over the keys to her vehicle, at which point one of the two offenders drove off in the victim’s vehicle; and was last seen on the 2000 Block of Pattisson Ave. The second offender entered a second dark-colored SUV and followed Offender #1. Several personal and work items were also taken with the vehicle.”
The police are working with the FBI on the investigation.
“I am relieved that Congresswoman Scanlon was not physically injured, and my thoughts are with her during this difficult time,” said Philadelphia Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw. “The PPD will continue to provide any support needed in this case and will work diligently alongside our federal partners to assist in bringing those responsible to justice.”
