Baltimore Man Found Guilty of Armed Carjacking and Firearm Offenses

A Baltimore man has been convicted by a federal jury for his role in an armed carjacking that occurred at a local gas station. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland, Ron Wardlow, 26, was found guilty of carjacking, using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, and illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition as a previously convicted felon. The jury’s verdict marks a significant conclusion to the case, which involved the use of a handgun during the commission of a felony.

The incident took place on February 27, 2025, when Wardlow, reportedly wearing a mask and gloves, approached two individuals at a gas station in Fells Point. He allegedly asked for a ride, and upon refusal by one of the victims, Wardlow proceeded to brandish a 9mm Glock pistol loaded with an extended magazine. The firearm, which contained 31 rounds, was pointed at the victim as Wardlow demanded the car keys. After the keys were handed over, Wardlow entered the vehicle and fled the scene. The victims subsequently contacted the 911 emergency services to report the carjacking.

Following the carjacking, the victims were able to track some of their digital devices that were left in the stolen vehicle. The activity from these devices ceased in the Liberty Heights neighborhood, leading the victims to believe Wardlow had discarded them. When the victims went to the location where the device activity stopped, they reportedly found the victim’s car still running. The vehicle then reversed and drove away, prompting the victim to contact the police again to update law enforcement on the car’s whereabouts.

Officers from the Regional Auto Theft Task Force (RATT) located the vehicle at a nearby gas station. Upon arrival of law enforcement, Wardlow was observed by officers and fled on foot. A pursuit ensued, with aerial surveillance assisting officers in tracking Wardlow’s movements. He was eventually apprehended hiding in the cellar entryway of a nearby residence. A search of Wardlow incident to his arrest yielded the mask and gloves he was accused of wearing during the carjacking. Furthermore, a bag found inside the stolen vehicle contained the loaded 9mm Glock pistol that Wardlow allegedly used.

Wardlow faces significant federal penalties for his conviction. The charge of brandishing a firearm during the carjacking carries a mandatory minimum sentence of seven years, which must be served consecutively to any other sentences imposed. He also faces a maximum of 15 years in prison for the carjacking offense and an additional maximum of 15 years for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Federal sentencing guidelines, along with other statutory factors, will be considered by the presiding federal district judge when determining Wardlow’s final sentence. Sentencing has been scheduled for Wednesday, July 29, at 11 a.m. The U.S. Attorney’s Office commended the collaborative efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Baltimore Police Department (BPD), and the Baltimore County Police Department (BCPD) in conducting the investigation, and also acknowledged the valuable assistance provided by the Regional Auto Theft Task Force (RATT).

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Maryland

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