Police are asking for help in identifying four suspects wanted for stealing from a 68-year-old woman in Whitestone last week after they punctured one of her car’s tires and later pretended to help her out.
On Friday, Sept. 18, at about 2:50 p.m., police said, the victim parked her car in front of 25-17 Parsons Blvd. and exited the vehicle. While she was away, the first male suspect – described as wearing a gray T-shirt, shorts and sneakers – approached the car and punctured the rear passenger tire with an unknown object, according to authorities.
The victim returned a short time later and drove only a short distance before discovering the flat tire. She parked in front of 25-03 Parson Blvd. to change the tire.
Authorities said she was then approached by two more suspects – both men wearing baseball caps – who offered their help and distracted the victim while a female suspect – described as wearing a dress and sandals – took the victim’s purse containing $1,175, a cellphone and several credit cards from the car. All the suspects then fled the scene.
One of the suspects who offered his help to the victim was last seen wearing a light-colored shirt, white pants and baseball cap, while the other wore a white T-shirt, blue jeans and a black baseball cap.
Police released photos of three of the suspects: the first suspect who punctured the tire, one of the men who offered their help, and the female suspect.
Anyone with information in regards to this incident is asked to call the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers Hotline at 800-577-TIPS. The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the Crime Stoppers website or texting their tips to 274637 (CRIMES) then enter TIP577. All calls and messages are kept confidential.
