The Philadelphia Police Department Northwest Detective Division is actively seeking to identify two suspects linked to a recent strong-arm robbery incident. On January 24, at approximately 7:15 am near 240 W. Chelten Ave, an autistic male was robbed while he was waiting for the bus. According to the police report, a male and a female approached the victim and coerced him into withdrawing $200 from an ATM before forcibly taking the money and his wallet. The suspects were last seen boarding the #26 Septa bus, escaping the scene with the stolen goods.
The authorities have released a surveillance video from the store where the withdrawal was made, in efforts to quickly to apprehend the individuals responsible. The video available has no audio, but clear imagery of the suspects is hoping to aid in their identification. This footage is viewable on the Philadelphia Police YouTube Channel or through their official website.
Descriptions of the suspects have been circulated: Suspect #1 is reported as a Black male with a medium build, last seen wearing a red jacket and black pants. Suspect #2 is described as a Black female, also with a medium build, clad in a black coat. The public is urged to exercise caution; if anyone encounters these suspects, they should not approach them and contact 911 immediately. Tips can be furnished by dialing 215.686.TIPS (8477) or by texting the same number. Alternatively, an electronic form is available for those who wish to submit tips anonymously; all provided information will be kept confidential.
Anyone bearing knowledge about this crime or who can identify the suspects in question, please reach out to the Northwest Detective Division at 215-686-3353/3354, referencing case DC 25-39-005307. The Philadelphia Police are urging the community to assist by sharing information, hoping to help them to bring swift justice to this recent event of criminality.
