Detroit man admits carjacking victim he met on X, says he ‘needed money’

DETROIT – A man is accused of carjacking a victim who told officers he met the suspect on social media. According to Detroit Police, the suspect then fired shots as the victim tried to stop him.

According to a federal complaint, police responded to the carjacking on Jan. 28, 2026, on West Chicago near Southfield on Detroit’s west side.

When officers arrived, they were met by the victim, who told police that his 2018 Ford Escape was stolen by a black male whom he had met on X.

Police said the victim arrived at an apartment complex on West Chicago around 11:30 that night, and the suspect, later identified as Jabari McMullin, got into his SUV.

They drove to a nearby parking lot, but after about 30 minutes, McMullin announced “that he was robbing him.”

McMullin “produced a pistol” and allegedly told the victim: “this is one of those situations,” before demanding money, cards and a phone.

He then had the victim pull up account balances.

When the victim opened an account, McMullin allegedly warned, “It’s about to go down if you don’t do what I say.”

According to investigators, the victim got out as McMullin slid into the driver’s seat, but the Escape became stuck in the snow.

When the victim came back to the door and grabbed the handle, McMullin “stuck his arm and pistol out the window and fired two shots.” Police said the victim then went to a gas station and called 911.

Later, police said License Plate Reader alerts picked up the SUV near M-39 and Joy. Michigan State Police tried to stop it, but the driver fled.

McMullin was caught “after a short foot pursuit,” police said, and “a black pistol” was discovered in plain view inside the SUV.

During an interview the next day, McMullin allegedly admitted he chose to rob the victim “since he needed money.” Police said McMullin admitted to bringing the pistol and to firing it when the victim grabbed the door.

He also said he saw state police coming, “knew he was going to jail,” and “decided to run,” according to the complaint.

Federal investigators said the Ford Escape that was taken at gunpoint was made outside the state of Michigan — in Louisville, Kentucky, which means it was “transported in interstate commerce” under the carjacking statute.

McMullin appeared before a federal magistrate for his initial appearance, charging him with carjacking and discharging of a firearm for furtherance of a crime of violence.

He is scheduled for a detention hearing on Monday, Feb. 2, 2026.