POLK COUNTY, Fla. – What began as a standard pickup at a Tampa gentleman’s club ended in a terrifying ordeal—and a bizarre fast-food detour—for one rideshare driver early Saturday morning. Polk County deputies are now searching for a suspect they say kidnapped an Uber driver at gunpoint, stopping for a meal before vanishing into the night.
The incident unfolded in the early hours of January 3, 2026. According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO), the driver had been hired to pick up a passenger from the Alibi Gentlemen’s Club in Tampa. Once inside the vehicle, the situation quickly turned dangerous.
Investigators say the passenger produced a firearm and forced the driver to head east toward Dundee. However, the gunman had an unexpected demand before reaching his destination.
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While held at gunpoint, the driver was ordered to pull into a Salem’s restaurant in Winter Haven. There, the suspect allegedly ordered food from the drive-thru window before forcing the driver to continue the trip.
The ride finally ended around 2:39 a.m. near the intersection of Spring Creek Road and LynRock Avenue, just east of Dundee. Before exiting the vehicle, the suspect gave the driver a chilling instruction: stop the car and count to ten.
By the time the driver finished the count, the man was gone. The victim immediately contacted the Sheriff’s Office.
Detectives with the PCSO Robbery Unit quickly zeroed in on a suspect. They identified the man as 24-year-old Jamarcus Fowler. Records indicate Fowler lives on Spring Creek Road, just one street north of where he abandoned the Uber.
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Authorities have obtained an arrest warrant for Fowler charging him with Armed Kidnapping, Armed Burglary, and Aggravated Assault.
Deputies warn that Fowler should be considered armed and dangerous.
Have Information? The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone who knows the whereabouts of Jamarcus Fowler to call (863) 298-6200.
For those wishing to remain anonymous and potentially be eligible for a cash reward, tips can be submitted to Heartland Crime Stoppers:
- Call: 1-888-400-TIPS (8477)
- Cell: Dial **TIPS
- Online: Visit heartlandcrimestoppers.com
- App: Download the “P3tips” app
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