A 73-year-old Memphis grandmother was robbed at gunpoint while wrapping up grocery shopping for a Mother’s Day dinner in Whitehaven, turning a family celebration into a frightening ordeal. As she left the Cash Saver and walked through the parking lot, a masked suspect pointed what she described as a long rifle at her and demanded her purse. Witnesses said the robber sped away in a white SUV that was later found abandoned, leaving relatives rattled heading into the holiday.
According to WREG, the robbery happened in the 4000 block of Elvis Presley Boulevard. The attacker took the victim’s driver's license, some cash, and the keys to her cars and house. Family members told WREG they quickly changed the locks on the home and gate afterward to tighten security. Police had not announced any arrests as of the initial report.
Scene and Witness Accounts
“That’s the longest rifle I’ve ever seen,” the victim, Varnell Glenn, told WREG, recalling the moment the weapon was pointed at her and her purse was taken. Witnesses reported that the robber left in a white SUV and appeared to hit another vehicle while fleeing. The SUV was later found abandoned on Silver Street in Whitehaven. Investigators are asking anyone with information to speak up.
How to Help
Anyone with tips can contact Crime Stoppers of Memphis and Shelby County at 901-528-CASH (901-528-2274) or submit an anonymous tip online. The organization notes that tips that lead to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward, and callers remain confidential.
Neighbors’ Reaction
Family members say the robbery has left them shaken and wary about everyday errands. Melissa Glenn said she finds it sad that seniors cannot shop in peace. Shoppers in the Whitehaven area told neighbors they plan to be more cautious in parking lots while police continue the investigation.
