In a startling incident in Orange County, Florida, an 18-year-old man, masked and armed, carjacked a woman at gunpoint, claiming he needed the vehicle to visit his grandmother. The unsettling episode unfolded recently, drawing attention to the alarming nature of such crimes.

Authorities identified the suspect as Kenneth Shears, who was apprehended late Saturday evening following a short-lived pursuit. The chase ultimately concluded when Shears crashed the stolen car into a parked vehicle on a residential lawn, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office reported. Notably, Shears has never possessed a driver’s license, adding a layer of recklessness to the crime.

The victim, choosing to remain anonymous, recounted the frightening encounter to FOX35 Orlando. She described how Shears approached her while she was seated in her car, brandishing a firearm. Initially, she mistook his actions for a prank.

According to the arrest report, Shears expressed regret during the carjacking, telling the victim, “I am sorry to be doing this, but I need to see my grandmother.” Despite the tense situation, the victim attempted to negotiate, offering Shears a ride instead. He assured her he would return the vehicle, a promise that was never fulfilled.

Kenneth Shears now faces serious felony charges for the incident, which took place on January 24, 2026. The Orange County Corrections Department has released his arrest details, underscoring the severity of his actions and the consequences he now faces.

She said she pleaded with him for several minutes and offered to give him a ride. Shears promised to return the car, authorities said.

“He looked like something was wrong,” she told the outlet. “If he was robbing me, he could’ve taken all my jewelry. I had on jewelry. He could’ve taken my money. I had money on me and credit cards. He could’ve taken my bag. It had my laptop in it. He didn’t take anything.”

Deputies said Shears led them on a brief car chase before his arrest. (Orange County Sheriff’s Office/Facebook)

Deputies said Shears led them on a short chase before crashing into a parked car, totaling both vehicles.

Shears is being held at the Orange County Jail. (iStock)

Shears faces multiple charges, including carjacking with a firearm, and is being held at the Orange County Jail.