US Rep. Scanlon's carjacked automobile found; 5 in custody

PHILADELPHIA, (AP) -- Police said that the vehicle taken from Mary Gay Scanlon, U.S. Rep., was discovered in Delaware with five suspects inside. They were being held in police custody.

US Rep. Scanlon's carjacked automobile found; 5 in custody

According to Delaware State Police, Scanlon's Acura MDX blue was found Wednesday night in Newark (Delaware), about 45 miles (74 km) from Philadelphia.

Police said that the suspects were currently being investigated. The names of the suspects have not been released and there are no other details.

Two armed men approached Scanlon, a Democrat. They demanded her keys as she was returning to her car from a meeting at FDR Park in the city shortly before 3 p.m. on Wednesday. Police said that she gave them the keys and the one who drove away in the car followed her in a dark sport utility vehicle.

Lauren Cox, her spokesperson said that Scanlon was unharmed. Police said that the vehicle also contained several personal and work belongings.

"I am relieved Congresswoman Scanlon wasn't physically injured, my thoughts are with her throughout this difficult time," Danielle Outlaw, Police Commissioner, stated in a statement. She also promised that police would offer any support that was needed.

According to The Philadelphia Inquirer, Scanlon's district includes parts of South Philadelphia and Delaware County. He was one of the elected officials who met with constituents to discuss concerns about ongoing park development plans.

According to Scanlon's bureau, she expressed gratitude for the quick response of city police and for Washington's Sergeant at Arms for helping her to ensure her safety.

Mayor Jim Kenney stated that he was shocked to hear about the violent crime against Congresswoman. He described her as a friend and colleague.

He wrote on Twitter, "My thoughts are for her during what'm sure to be a traumatic time."

Kenney stated that everyone deserves to feel safe in their city. Unfortunately, this has not always been the case. "It is disheartening that criminals feel empowered to commit such a reckless offense in the middle of the night in what should have been a place for peace--one our city's parks."