Report: Robbery suspect shot partner in carjacking attempt
One robbery suspect shot another during an attempted carjacking in Americana Plaza Sunday afternoon, Orange County deputies said.
Mahoki Francois, 18, faces an armed robbery charge. Deputies are looking for the second suspect.
A woman was picking up her 24-year-old son at the Family Dollar store in Americana Plaza at about 3 p.m. when Francois and the second suspect allegedly forced their way into their minivan with a firearm, deputies said.
One of the men allegedly put the gun to the woman’s head, and the woman drove to the other side of the plaza.
When she got to Buddy’s Home Furnishings, her son suddenly grabbed Francois, deputies said.
The second suspect started firing his gun at Francois and the driver’s son, deputies said.
All four jumped out of the minivan.
The second suspect then grabbed the driver’s purse and ran away, yelling something that sounded like “keep it real or 100” at Francois, deputies said.
The driver and her son were not hurt, but Francois had been shot in his left leg and forearm.
Deputies found Francois laying on the concrete nearby.
He was taken to Orlando Regional Medical Center, then to the Orange County Jail.
Francois is being held on no bond.
Americana Plaza is located at Americana Boulevard and South Texas Avenue, just east of the Millenia area.
Anyone with more information about the case can call Central Florida Crimeline at 1-800-423-8477.
Callers remain anonymous. Tipsters may be eligible for a reward. Smart phone users can download the P3 tips ap to submit information.
For more information, go to www.cfcrimeline.com.