Police: Purse Snatcher Targeting Elderly Women In The City

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- A warning from police as they alert of a serial robber on the loose, targeting women near their homes.

Amy Yensi with residents who are on edge.

Police say the suspect is targeting women in the Roland Park and Guilford communities. Until they know who he is and where he is, they're warning everyone to be careful.

Women in Roland Park and Guilford are on edge after learning a serial robber is targeting elderly women in those communities.

"I think this is awful. This is very unsafe. We need to catch this person," said Roxana Marnell.

From last Thursday to Saturday, three elderly women have been victimized.

Baltimore City police say the suspect singles out unsuspecting women as they reeturn home, robbing them as they exit their cars or carry groceries and then forcibly snatching their purses.

Officials are urging women in the area to be aware of their surroundings and travel in groups whenever possible.

"What we ask is that everyone, if you are coming home and you're alone, have someone meet you there and escort you into your home," said Lt. Jarron Jackson, Baltimore City Police Department.

So far, the suspect has only hinted at having a weapon, but police aren't ready to discard the possiblity that he is armed.

"I'm going to have to be very careful when I come in here--maybe only in daylight, not too late," said Marnell.

Police say the suspect is a black man, around six-feet-tall and weighs between 200 to 240 pounds. He drives a black car--possibly a BMW.

Meghan Page says she feels safe in Roland Park, but the robberies show crime can happen anywhere.

"We've been hearing about crime happening in Baltimore everywhere, so why should we think that we're exclusive and crime isn't going to happen here?" Page said.

None of the victims have been hurt, but again, police don't know if the suspect is carrying a weapon.

If you feel like you're being followed or have any information on the suspect, police urge you to contact them.