Carjacking suspect sought in Mid-Missouri


A man with ties to the Eugene area is wanted by the Camden County Sheriff's Department in connection with a carjacking that took place Thursday.

A Camden County Sheriff's Department press release shows deputies took a report of a carjacking and assault in the Richland area.

The victim claimed she was giving a ride to a man in need who was later identified as Stephen Wachholtz, 43. Along with frequenting the Eugene area, Wachholtz is also known to have ties in Sunrise Beach, Richland and Dixon.

Authorities said Wachholtz called the victim for a ride after being asked to leave the residence where he was staying in Eugene. The victim picked him up, and he asked for a ride to Dixon. While en route, her vehicle began having mechanical problems, and she told Wachholtz she was going to drive to her home.

At that point Wachholtz allegedly attacked the victim by grabbing the steering wheel and attempting to cause the vehicle to crash. The victim then claimed Wachholtz slammed her head into the steering wheel. When the victim attempted to flee the vehicle with the keys, Wachholtz grabbed her by the hair, bit her on the hand and took the keys from her. He then pushed her out of the vehicle and drove off.

The victim described the vehicle as a gold 2000 Pontiac Grand Prix four-door sedan with a damaged driver's side tail light. The Pontiac has a Missouri license plate of EG2K0E.

The Camden County Prosecuting Attorney's Office is currently reviewing a probable cause affidavit asking for charges in this incident. Wachholtz is also wanted on previous warrants for various other crimes.

Anyone who sees the stolen Pontiac or knows of Wachholtz's whereabouts should contact the Camden County Sheriff's Office at 573-346-2243 or their local law enforcement agency.