Would-be carjackers target plainclothes San Diego detective

San Diego police on Wednesday were continuing to search for two would-be carjackers who attempted to steal a car Tuesday night from a man stopped at a stop sign.

But unfortunately for the would-be carjackers, their intended victim happened to be a plainclothes detective with the gang detail of the San Diego Police Department.

As the two approached the car, one announced "This is a carjacking" and reached into his waistband as if reaching for a gun.

The detective announced his employment status and pulled his service revolver. The assailants fled and eluded the officer after a short pursuit.

The gang and robbery units are investigating.

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-- Tony Perry in San Diego