Kidnapping Victim Held At Gunpoint, Forced To Drive While PA Man Opened Fire: Sentenced

Aga L. Thapaliya, 40, pleaded guilty on Feb. 28 to kidnapping, robbery, unlawful restraint, terroristic threats, and multiple firearms offenses, including illegally carrying a firearm, according to the Lancaster County District Attorney’s Office.

Thapaliya called the victim on Feb. 14, 2024, asking for a ride to his residence on the 2700 block of Valley Drive, prosecutors said. But once inside the car, he refused to leave, pulled out a handgun, and ordered the victim to “drive and do what I tell you.”

“If I don’t kill my brother, I will kill you,” Thapaliya allegedly threatened before demanding cash. The terrified victim handed over $500 in deposits as they drove, authorities said.

At some point along Route 30 between the Mountville and Columbia exits, Thapaliya fired several rounds from the passenger window. Fearing for his life, the victim complied with his demands until an opportunity to escape arose, police said.

When Thapaliya set the weapon on the dashboard and it slid onto the floor, the victim grabbed the gun and ran for safety on the 1100 block of Manheim Pike in Lancaster city. He immediately called police.

Lancaster city officers quickly located Thapaliya behind a nearby business complex and took him into custody. Investigators later confirmed he was not licensed to carry a concealed firearm.

Judge Merrill Spahn sentenced Thapaliya to seven to 20 years in state prison.

Assistant District Attorney Christopher Miller prosecuted the case, while Manor Township Police Officer Charles Snyder filed the charges.

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