Newark Carjacker Threatens to Take Kids, Mom Escapes

Police catch suspect after wild chase through Newark streets

Mar. 15, 2026 at 2:55am

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A 28-year-old Newark man named Pedro Salazar allegedly jumped into a car with a mother and her two children inside and threatened to drive off with the kids if the woman didn't get out. The mother and children were able to escape, but Salazar stole the car and led police on a chase through Newark streets before being caught and arrested.

Why it matters

Carjackings are a serious public safety concern, especially when children are involved. This incident highlights the risks families face and the need for continued law enforcement efforts to apprehend suspects and protect the community.

The details

According to Newark Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda, Sr., the incident occurred on March 8 around 8 p.m. on Bloomfield Avenue. Salazar allegedly jumped into the parked car while the mother was inside with her 17-year-old and 4-year-old children. He demanded the mother get out or he would drive off with the kids. The mother and children were able to escape before Salazar stole the vehicle. Police tracked the stolen car to Mt. Prospect Place, but Salazar drove off again, striking a parked car before abandoning the vehicle on Clifton Avenue. Salazar then hid in multiple backyards on Clifton Avenue and Ridge Street before being caught by police on Parker Street. He now faces a carjacking charge.

  • The incident occurred on March 8, 2026 around 8 p.m.
  • Police located the stolen vehicle on Mt. Prospect Place shortly after the carjacking.

The players

Pedro Salazar

A 28-year-old Newark resident who was arrested and charged with carjacking after the incident.

Emanuel Miranda, Sr.

The Newark Public Safety Director who provided details about the carjacking and police response.

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What they’re saying

“I commend the 2nd Precinct Officers who apprehended this suspect for carjacking a vehicle occupied by a mother and her two children. These officers were persistent in searching for the suspect.”

— Emanuel Miranda, Sr., Newark Public Safety Director

What’s next

Salazar will face a carjacking charge in court. The judge will determine if he should be held without bail or released pending trial.

The takeaway

This frightening incident underscores the need for continued vigilance and law enforcement efforts to address the rise in carjackings, especially those involving vulnerable victims like children. It serves as a reminder for families to be alert and take precautions when getting in and out of their vehicles.