(PONCHATOULA)---The search is on in Ponchatoula for a suspect wanted in connection with a case where a man tried to steal one vehicle, shot the owner of a second vehicle, and then stole the second vehicle, according to the Ponchatoula Police Department.

Ponchatoula Police Chief Bry Layrisson reports that the suspect is a middle-aged black male, approximately 5'9" tall, weighing 160 pounds, and wearing dark pants and a grey shirt at the time of the shooting. He adds that the suspect has gold teeth with his hair in dread locks pulled into a ponytail.

The initial theft attempt occurred in the parking lot of a hotel on West Pine Street in Ponchatoula. Chief Layrisson says that the suspect was trying to steal a vehicle in the parking lot when the vehicle owner confronted the suspect. The chief says that a struggle took place and the suspect fled to nearby Ellis Street.

According to the chief, the suspect then approached a second victim, a Hammond man, and pulled a handgun. Chief Layrisson says the suspect demanded the victim's truck, shot the victim once, and fled the scene in the truck. At last word, the victim is in stable condition at a local hospital.

The chief says the stolen truck is a white, 2004 Ford Ranger extended cab with a chrome tool box. As for the suspect, he is facing charges of attempted murder, carjacking, aggravated battery, and attempted theft of a vehicle.

Chief Layrisson says that there is a $1,000 reward being offered. If anyone knows the identity or the whereabouts of the suspect, he or she should call the Ponchatoula Police Department at 985.386.6548 or CrimeStoppers at 800.554.5245. He adds that CrimeStoppers is also offering a reward.

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