An ex-convict is now wanted for kidnapping a man he met in prison and two of his relatives. The man escaped. Now the other two are being held for ransom.

Police say Luis Owens Gonzalez, 24, is the ring leader. He has two accomplices--only known as Hispanic men.

The three are now wanted for kidnapping three men at gun point at a South Austin apartment complex around one Thursday morning. The man who knew Gonzalez from a stay in Bastrop Federal Prison managed to escape. Police say he hid for two hours, and then went to a Whataburger at Slaughter Lane and Highway 35 for help.

Police are now looking for two cars in connection with the kidnapping -- a 2007 Chrysler 300 and a Harley Davidson edition Ford F-150.

APD

Luis Owens Gonzalez

"We're working feverishly to try and locate not only those two vehicles, but certainly we want the two other cousins to the victim that was taken this morning returned safely," said Mark Spangler, Austin police.

Police say Gonzalez has called the families of the two missing men asking for money.

"We just don't have a complete picture as to what his thoughts are. We do know that we are currently and actively waiting for another message if he is going to call but that has not taken place yet," Spangler said.

Police have not released the identities of the missing men. We only know that they are in their 20s. If you have any information that will help police call Crime Stoppers at 472-TIPS.