(PONCHATOULA)---The search for a suspect in a Ponchatoula attempted murder and carjacking case is over, as New Orleans Police arrested the Baton Rouge man after they received a tip from Ponchatoula Police detectives, according to the Ponchatoula Police Department.

Ponchatoula Police Chief Bry Layrisson reports that 34-year-old Sylvester Lawson was arrested on Sunday, August 10, and will be charged with attempted murder, carjacking, second degree battery, and attempted auto theft.

The initial theft attempt occurred on Sunday, July 22, in the parking lot of a hotel on West Pine Street in Ponchatoula. Chief Layrisson says that Lawson was trying to steal a vehicle in the parking lot when the vehicle owner confronted him. The chief says that a struggle took place and Lawson fled to nearby Ellis Street.

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

On Thursday, August 7, the chief says detectives informed the NOPD that they had received information concerning a possible location of the missing vehicle. Chief Layrisson says that three days later, the vehicle was spotted and Lawson was arrested.

Chief Layrisson says Lawson is still being held in New Orleans until extradition procedures are complete.

---