18-Year-Old Arrested for Stealing Running Car from Lancaster Parking Lot

Jaquan Bell faces charges of vehicle theft, hit-and-run, and drug possession after brief police chase.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 6:59pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a damaged car key fob, conceptually illustrating the aftermath of a vehicle theft incident.The aftermath of a brazen vehicle theft highlights the need for drivers to remain vigilant about securing their cars, even in seemingly safe public spaces.Lancaster Today

Police in Lancaster, Pennsylvania arrested an 18-year-old man named Jaquan Bell on Thursday after he allegedly stole a running Cadillac ATS from a shopping center parking lot, striking another vehicle in the process before being apprehended following a brief foot pursuit.

Why it matters

Vehicle thefts remain an ongoing issue in many communities, with criminals often targeting vehicles left unattended with the engine running. This incident highlights the need for drivers to remain vigilant about vehicle security, even in seemingly safe public spaces like shopping center parking lots.

The details

According to police, the theft occurred around 1:49 pm on April 2, 2026 in the parking lot of Regency Square Shopping Center. A male suspect, later identified as Jaquan Bell, entered the unoccupied Cadillac with the engine running and fled the scene. Police were quickly notified and located the stolen vehicle within minutes in a nearby parking lot, leading to a foot chase that ended with Bell's arrest. In addition to the vehicle theft, Bell was also found to be in possession of a suspected marijuana vape pen.

  • The vehicle theft occurred at 1:49 pm on April 2, 2026.
  • Police located the stolen vehicle and apprehended the suspect shortly after the initial dispatch call.

The players

Jaquan Bell

An 18-year-old Lancaster resident who was arrested and charged with vehicle theft, hit-and-run, and drug possession.

Manor Township Police

The law enforcement agency that responded to the reported vehicle theft, located the stolen car, and arrested the suspect.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Bell is expected to be arraigned on the charges in the coming days, and the case will proceed through the criminal justice system.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder for drivers to always secure their vehicles, even when making a quick stop, in order to prevent crimes of opportunity like this vehicle theft. The swift response and apprehension of the suspect by local police also highlights their commitment to maintaining public safety in the community.