California grandfather James Norman dragged to death by deranged carjacker Ryan Hewitt: cops

A tragic incident unfolded at an ARCO gas station in Norco, California, where 79-year-old Army veteran and grandfather, James “Jim” Norman, lost his life in a carjacking gone horribly wrong. The perpetrator, identified as 29-year-old Ryan Hewitt, jumped into Norman’s Chevrolet Trailblazer as he was vacuuming the vehicle, prompting Norman to cling desperately to the backseat as Hewitt sped off.

Witnesses immediately alerted the authorities as the carjacking unfolded, but Norman was eventually thrown from the vehicle, resulting in fatal injuries. His body was found half a mile from the gas station, leaving his family devastated. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Norman succumbed to his injuries, leaving a void in the lives of his loved ones.

Norman’s daughter, Nicole Lauritsen, expressed her hope that her father did not suffer and extended her gratitude to those who protected his body at the scene. She revealed that Norman had plans to meet for a meal before the tragedy struck, indicating that the killer may have been aware of Norman’s presence but made a panicked decision to continue driving.

Lauritsen also shared that her father, who wore hearing aids but was not wearing them at the time, likely did not hear the carjacker approaching due to the noise of the vacuum. She mentioned that she was able to track Norman’s car through an AirTag she had installed, which ultimately led to Hewitt’s arrest.

Hewitt was apprehended shortly after abandoning Norman’s car and now faces charges of carjacking and murder. Norman, described as a man who lived a modest yet adventurous life, served in the Army and held various jobs throughout his lifetime, including construction, vehicle transport, and piloting aircraft. A GoFundMe page has been set up to assist with Norman’s funeral and burial expenses, highlighting his passion for travel and work ethic that endeared him to those around him.

The tragic loss of James Norman serves as a stark reminder of the senseless violence that can occur in everyday situations, leaving families shattered and communities reeling from the loss of a beloved member.