Milwaukee hit-and-run crash, armed robbery; suspect sought

Police are seeking a suspect in connection with a hit-and-run crash that led to an armed robbery near Michigan and Van Buren in downtown Milwaukee on Wednesday morning, April 20.

Officials say around 10:15 a.m. Wednesday, the suspect struck a vehicle, produced a weapon, took the victim's vehicle, and left the scene. 

The victim, a 60-year-old man, was not hurt. 

Hit-and-run crash, armed robbery at Michigan and Van Buren in Milwaukee

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From 2020 until today, Milwaukee police statistics show a 24% increase in carjackings.

This incident is unique because it’s really two crimes: a hit-and-run and an armed robbery.

More than a day later and the scene of an accident at Michigan and Van Buren remains scattered in the gutter.

In the shadow of the US Bank building Wednesday morning, Milwaukee police say a 60-year-old man was driving through the intersection when he was hit.

Hit-and-run crash, armed robbery at Michigan and Van Buren in Milwaukee

Investigators say the driver of the striking vehicle got out, showed a weapon and took off with the victim’s vehicle.

Police say this is both a hit-and-run and armed robbery.  The crime is similar to a phenomenon FOX6 investigated seven years ago…

"If a passenger gets out of the vehicle – instead of the driver – that may be a warning sign," said Milwaukee Police Officer John Kaltenbrun.

The summer of 2015 saw a spike in "bump and run" carjackings. In a two-week span, 10 incidents were reported where criminals hit another driver’s car, waited for the victim to get out of the car...

Hit-and-run crash, armed robbery at Michigan and Van Buren in Milwaukee

"When this takes place, then that vehicle is stolen," said Kaltenbrun.

Viewer video of Wednesday's crime shows a major difference: police say the suspect’s vehicle was left at the scene with heavy front-end damage.

Milwaukee police are still searching for the suspect.

Investigators provided no description of him or the stolen vehicle. 

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Milwaukee police at 414-935-7360 or to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 414-224-TIPS or P3 Tips App.