Police are hunting a moped-riding crew after a weekend string of necklace snatchings that targeted teenage girls across the Bronx on Saturday and Sunday. One teen suffered minor neck injuries, according to authorities, and investigators have released images of the suspects. The incidents hit multiple neighborhoods, and detectives are urging residents to comb through doorbell and building camera footage.
What police say
According to FOX 5 NY, the NYPD says the robberies unfolded in the 43rd and 46th precincts. Around 5:42 p.m. last Saturday, two people on a moped rolled up to a 15-year-old near Gleason Avenue and Noble Avenue and tried to rip a necklace from her neck. Minutes later, outside 1890 Watson Avenue, a 13-year-old had a necklace worth about $600 yanked away as the suspects sped off westbound.
The following day, police say someone on a blue moped struck again, grabbing a 13-year-old's chain near 2119 Grand Concourse around 1:30 p.m. That victim suffered minor neck injuries but declined medical attention, according to the NYPD.
Pattern across the borough
News 12 reported that investigators have tied these cases to a broader moped-driven chain-snatching pattern across the Bronx, with at least six similar robberies between March 21 and April 11. The approach is the same each time: suspects ride up from behind, grab jewelry in one quick move, then take off on two wheels.
Authorities say suspects in some of the recent incidents have escalated their tactics, including showing or using firearms. The rash of thefts has triggered renewed wanted alerts and fresh calls for building-camera footage from residents and property managers, according to News 12.
Police ask for tips
Detectives have released still images of the suspects and are urging anyone with information or video to contact NYPD Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS or submit a tip online, according to FOX 5 NY. Investigators say they have not yet confirmed whether the same individuals are behind all three of the most recent incidents and are asking residents and businesses to hang on to any relevant footage.
Tips can also be sent directly through NYPD Crime Stoppers.
How this fits into a citywide trend
Police say smaller motorized two-wheelers have become a go-to tool for quick-hit robberies across New York City, letting suspects zip along sidewalks and through back streets to get away before officers can close in. It is a recurring headache that the NYPD has tried to tackle with targeted enforcement in recent years.
As Gothamist reported, the department has stepped up the removal of unregistered mopeds and scooters as part of that push. Police say preserving video and reporting tips as quickly as possible remains crucial for helping detectives put names to faces.
Safety tips for residents
Police advise people to avoid flaunting valuable jewelry in public and to stay alert if riders on mopeds or scooters get too close. If you witness a theft, report it right away, note the direction of travel and any distinctive details on the vehicle, and save any phone or building-camera footage for investigators.
Officials stress that residents should not chase or confront suspects. Instead, call 911 and NYPD Crime Stoppers.
