Claymont – Delaware State Police are investigating the attempted armed robbery of a taxi cab driver that occurred New Years Day, and are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying and locating the three suspects, according to Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Michael Austin.
Austin said the incident occurred at approximately 9:06 p.m., Monday, January 1, 2018, in the 2500 block of Philadelphia Pike, Claymont, as the 55-year-old cab driver was transporting three male suspects. While the vehicle was still in transport, the driver asked the suspects, who were all occupying the back seat, how he was going to be paid. At this time, one of the suspects displayed a large knife and demanded money from the driver, according to Austin.
The driver immediately slammed on his brakes, causing the armed suspect to fall forward into the front seat. After coming to a complete stop, all three suspects exited the vehicle and fled on foot, eastbound across Philadelphia Pike, without obtaining any money or property. The driver was not injured as a result of the incident.
Through investigative measures Troopers were able to positively identify Ismael Ramos, 32, of Vineland New Jersey, as the suspect who originally called for the cab, and as one of the passengers at the time of the robbery, said Austin.
The suspect who brandished the knife was described as a white male, 30-35 years of age, wearing a red hooded sweatshirt, dark colored pants, white sneakers, a black winter hat and wearing a backpack. This suspect is pictured above in the full body surveillance photo.
The third suspect was described as a white male, 30-35 years of age, wearing a blue sweatshirt and gray sweatpants.
Active warrants are currently on file charging Ramos with Attempted Robbery 1st Degree and Conspiracy 2nd Degree.
Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Ramos or the identities of the other two suspects are asked to contact Cpl. A. Andres at Troop 2 by calling 302-365-8501.