Police in Washington state are warning drivers about crooks who will intentionally rear-end them, only to lure the drivers into being carjacked.

The Renton Police Department, a suburb of Seattle, said it has seen an increase in these staged collisions where the at-fault driver will use the situation to steal a car by force.

Authorities referenced an incident last week where three people quickly swarmed a victim driver after getting into a fender bender in a Walmart parking lot.

One of the suspects got in the back seat of the victim’s car and pointed a gun at two children sitting there.

Another suspect walked up to the driver’s window and ordered the victim out of the car by gunpoint.

The victim complied and exited the car with the two children.

The suspects were described as three dark-skin males wearing dark clothing and ski masks. The trio ranged in height from 5-foot-9 to 5-11, with one of the suspects having short dreadlocks.

“Suspects who are choosing this type of crime have already decided they are willing to risk it all for your vehicle; the weapons they (probably) have in their possession will already be pointed at you and whoever is with you,” Renton police said while urging drivers to hand over their vehicle when confronted. “This is no time to gamble on your or your loved one’s safety.”

Authorities suggested drivers pay attention to their surroundings and take a lap or two around parking lots to see if they’re being followed.

Police said that if victims are put into this situation, they should try and remember details about the suspects and their vehicle.

• Matt Delaney can be reached at mdelaney@washingtontimes.com.