By Sarina Trangle
BRIARWOOD — Police were searching for a 28-year-old man believed to have used a hammer to rob a woman in Briarwood in the first of three robberies, the NYPD said.
The Police Department said Anthony Coward, 28, allegedly struck first March 5 when he sneaked up behind a 26-year-old woman on Pershing Crescent in Briarwood. He allegedly hit her in the head with a silver hammer and ran off with her handbag, according to police.
The NYPD said the woman was brought to Jamaica Hospital in stable condition.
Police said they believe Coward next attacked a 23-year-old man in the Rockaway Avenue subway station in Brooklyn May 4. Officers said he allegedly struck the victim in the head and body with a hammer and then stole his wallet.
The 23-year-old was treated and released from Brookdale Hospital, according to the NYPD.
Police said they believe Coward returned to the Rockaway Avenue station May 7, when he allegedly came up behind a 32-year-old man buying a MetroCard, hit him in the head with a hammer and demanded money. Authorities said the victim handed over cash and the suspect ran off.
The victim was treated at Brookdale Hospital for a head injury and has since been released, according to police.
Those with information should contact NYPD’s Crimestoppers by calling 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), visiting its website or texting 274637 (CRIMES) and entering TIP577.
