Sarnia police have released a photo of a person of interest as they investigate two incidents where elderly women had their purses stolen out of their hands.
Constable John Sottosanti said the first happened on January 16 between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. across from Bluewater Health.
"The 73-year-old female had a male party approach her in the parking lot area located southwest of London Road and Russell Street. At this time, the male party pulled her purse away from her and he ran from the area. Unfortunately, the elderly female fell to the ground and did sustain some minor injuries that required medical attention."
A person of interest in a Sarnia police investigation of purse thefts.
The suspect is described as tall and thin with dark clothing.
At around 3 p.m. January 19, police said a 76-year-old woman had her purse snatched by a suspect in the 300 block of Maria Street, west of Russell Street.
Police said she didn't sustain any injuries and the suspect fled. He was chased by a witness who was unable to catch him.
The suspect in the second incident is described as caucasian, in his twenties, wearing a dark coloured parka, jeans, and a hospital mask on his face.
Police are asking people to be aware of their surroundings when getting in or out of their vehicles and to consider using a wallet that can easily be tucked into your coat.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Jeff Rovers at 519-344-8861 ext. 6159, or Sarnia Lambton Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.