Vancouver purse-snatching suspect may be connected to other robberies: VPD
Posted April 11, 2024 10:27 am.
Last Updated April 11, 2024 11:41 am.
Police are appealing to the public to help identify a purse-snatching suspect in Vancouver who is believed to be connected to other crimes.
The Vancouver Police Department says the person “is a suspect in a number of robberies and attempted robberies of women” throughout Vancouver.
The VPD explains that on Feb. 5 around 6 p.m., a 47-year-old woman who was walking in the area of Pender and Hamilton streets was “approached from behind.” The suspect then “tried to rip her bag off her arm,” causing her to fall to the ground. The woman was able to hold onto her bag and called police. The VPD says the suspect, however, got away.
On March 15 around 7:30 p.m., the VPD says a 31-year-old woman walking in the area of East 1st Avenue and Renfrew Street was “followed for several blocks” by someone she didn’t know.
“As he got closer to her, he approached from behind and used a large knife to cut her purse strap. After a brief struggle, the suspect fled with the purse,” police explain.
Investigators have since released images of the suspect taken on March 15 from a bus security camera and a building security camera. In this footage, the man is seen wearing a dark-coloured Nike sweat suit, black and white runners, and a Toronto Raptors ball cap.
He is described as being between 25 and 35 years old with a medium build, dark hair, a dark moustache, and beard.
“Through our investigation, we have obtained clear video and pictures of the suspect, and we’re asking anyone who knows him to come forward,” said Const. Tania Visintin.
Police are trying to determine whether these incidents may be linked to other “unsolved purse-snatchings.”
The VPD is asking anyone with information to contact 604-717-0610.
