The quick thinking of two off duty police officers help Peoria police track down a carjacking suspect.

A Creve Coeur officer who overheard the commotion at Northwoods mall came to the aid of the victim and a Peoria police lieutenant arrested the suspect.

Peoria police say 52-year-old William Ranson approached a female shopper at Northwoods Mall Monday night and demanded keys to her sports utility vehicle, but she was not giving up her purse freely.

Police spokesperson Ann Ruggles said, "There was a struggle that ensued over the purse and the keys, she was struck in the face receiving some injuries, but nothing life threatening."

An off duty Creve Coeur police officer sitting in his car heard the woman's screams and ran over trying to stop Ranson. That's when police say Ranson backed up hitting several parked cars and the officer who fired two shots at the fleeing vehicle.

Police Chief Steve Settingsgaard said, "I can only assume that when the officer took the shots he took he was fairly comfortable with what his backdrop was, whether or not he was endangering someone else."

Police found the carjacked vehicle here near University and Daytona. Ruggles says the suspect walked South on University a few blocks away where he caught a bus on Glen.

Peoria Police Lieutenant Phil Benne was working off duty at City Link's Transfer Center when he was listening to the call on his radio. He credits mall witnesses and the Creve Coeur cop who had police contact On-star for help finding the vehicle.

Northwoods Mall officials would not comment on the incident.

Ranson faces charges of aggravated robbery, aggravated battery with bodily harm and aggravated vehicle hijacking. He did not appear in court Tuesday, but may be in court tomorrow.

Peoria police warn shoppers to be more alert and focused on their surroundings when leaving malls.

If you notice someone acting suspicious they say go back inside and alert security and try not to shop alone especially at night.