Thief wanted for 2 Vancouver purse snatchings on Thursday night

Dec 19 2017, 5:21 pm

Vancouver Police are looking for a man believed to be responsible for a pair of purse snatching robberies last night.

The first incident took place shortly before 10:00 p.m. A 20-year old woman was walking north along Nootka Street near 24th Avenue when she was attacked from behind. A man grabbed her purse and punched her several times in the head. Unable to take the purse from the woman, the suspect pulled out a gun and threatened her. When the victim screamed, the suspect fled on foot.

The second robbery occurred about an hour later on Midlothian Avenue near Nat Bailey Stadium. A 23-year old woman was waiting for her bus when a man ran up and tried to grab her purse. The thief then punched the woman in the face and ran off north through Hillcrest Park with the stolen purse.

Fortunately, nobody was seriously injured in either incident.

Police believe the two incidents may be linked and possibly committed by the same man. The suspect has been described as about 20 years old, 5’7” – 5’8” tall with a skinny build. He was wearing black pants and a black hoody.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Vancouver Police at (604) 717- 3200 or Crime Stoppers at1(800) 222-8477.

Safety Tips:

  • walk with a friend or family member if possible
  • keep your purse and belongings close to your body so they aren’t easily grabbed
  • carry keys and identifying documents in your pocket, so if your purse is stolen thieves won’t have your house keys
  • if possible, do not carry large amounts of money with you

Source: Vancouver Police Department | Image: Purse snatching via Shutterstock

DH Vancouver StaffDH Vancouver Staff

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